Science is studied as separate subjects by all pupils from Years 8 to 11. Many students choose to continue with their scientific studies with individual subjects being popular choices at A level. Westholme has modern, fully-equipped teaching laboratories and lessons are taught by well-qualified subject specialists. Emphasis is placed on the enjoyment of Science through a variety of motivating and engaging teaching techniques. Each laboratory possesses an interactive whiteboard and internet access. Lap-top computers allow pupils to use ICT in the laboratories and enable data-logging equipment to be used during experiments.
There is a particularly strong emphasis on practical work and pupils are taught Biology, Chemistry and Physics as separate Sciences from Year 8 onwards. In Years 7-8 lessons are based on the National Curriculum for Science. In Year 9 all students begin their GCSE courses with most carrying on to study AQA Combined Science Trilogy, leading to two Science GCSE grades. Those students considered to be exceptional scientists follow the Separate Science GCSE courses leading to three GCSEs in Biology, Chemistry and Physics. All of our pupils are extremely successful, with many sixth form students gaining places to study at top Universities.
The department is very supportive of all students of all abilities and drop-in clinics are held regularly at lunchtimes, available to students in all year groups. A wide variety of extracurricular activities take place as pupils progress through the school.