Science
The Science Department is housed in five, large, purpose-built laboratories surrounding a grassed courtyard where the department’s wildlife feeding stations are located. All the laboratories within the department are very well equipped as great emphasis is placed on a practical approach to learning. Each laboratory has its own PC linked to the School’s intranet as well as to the internet. These computers are also used for data-logging during some experimental sessions. The department also includes a large well stocked preparation room, a greenhouse and a bog garden. A number of animals including gerbils, guinea pigs, geckos, frogs, fish also form an added attraction for pupils within the department. The School’s extensive grounds are often used during practical work in all three science disciplines.
Each of the three science disciplines, Physics, Chemistry and Biology, is taught as a separate subject by subject specialists in Years 6, 7 and 8. Five enthusiastic and committed teachers and a laboratory technician ensure each pupil has the opportunity to experience the positive and dynamic approach the department offers. The small teaching groups at MPS enable the staff to identify and meet individual learning preferences and styles whether the pupils are working towards Scholarship, Continuous Curriculum or our Adapted Continuous Curriculum examinations. Pupils are always expected to play an active role in all lessons.
Each year our pupils take part in many national competitions, some of which are open to pupils up to the age of 16. Our Year 7 pupils have won and been runners up in the Association for Science Education ‘Science Challenge’ Competition. Similarly some of our Year 8 pupils have gained both first and second places in the Salters’ Festival of Chemistry held at Exeter University. MPS has also won and been highly commended in the British Naturalists Association ‘Blake Shield Award’ for pieces of original research.
The Science Department also makes an active contribution to National Science Week. In particular Year 5 and Year 6 pupils experience Science Fairs, introducing them to experimental work beyond their normal curriculum.
The Science Department’s aim is to provide pupils with challenges and stimuli to develop knowledge and creativity through independent learning.