Science Development Day

Team science is currently adapting to two entirely new curriculums both for KS3 and for BTEC. The prime focus of the day was to create schemes of work for both so that we may make the transition to the new curriculums as straight forward as humanly possible. The new curriculum introduces vast arrays of previous KS4 content into KS3 making the way we deliver complex vocabulary, models and concepts to all ability ranges a prime focus.

With differentiation we have looked at ways of creating an online ‘file-share’ using the new dynamic learning resource we have started to compile each other “best bits” so to speak. This will hopefully mean that learners can have access to the optimal resources and also make the way we plan as a department smarter.

Furthermore, the planning day has given us a fraction of time to evaluate what had worked well with last academic year’s curriculum and delivery to enable us to carry forward or develop our successful management from last year with the intention of making an even more ‘streamlined’ delivery scheme.

With new, more stringent, protocols in place for the BTEC curriculums we have had to create a very rigid framework in order to meet deadlines and maximise pass-rates. Again, a new scheme of work has had to be created that will give all learners access to Pass, Merit and Distinction content. We hope that with the times spent planning the first units; the new BTECs continue to provide learners with an enjoyable and project based means of learning.

Exciting times, challenges and opportunities lay ahead for all over at Science HQ. Special mention to the construction workers on the day. Their fantastic use of hydraulic machinery really resonated with us!​

Damien, Terry and Karen

Maths Department Planning Day

MATHEMATICS DEPARTMENT PLANNING DAY

The department had it first planning day on the 23/9/14. The focus was to look at the four rules of number and plan out a progression of skills which the department would all teach to. This would allow us to have a consistent approach int terms of order of skills taught as well as a consistent approach to methods allowing for pupils to have a consistent experience across the five years.

It was an amazing opportunity to be given an entire day of lessons covered to talk as a maths team about our teaching and how children learn. We discussed opportunities to review and develop methods within the department to improve the understanding of our students. To ensure that methods of application and understanding are embedded in all of our students. The most exciting development was our new approach to teaching directed number across the school to all pupils. We believe that with this approach we will minimalise the misconceptions and difficulties in this topic.

We were also lucky enough to have a maths specialist from our local Junior School. Mrs Longhurst was very helpful in helping us develop strategies for our low attainers.
As a department this was an exciting and useful day, sharing ideas and collaborating as a team. Looking at how we can improve and develop within the department, developing ideas and executing these into our classes.

Not forgetting to thank our wonderful Master Baker, Mrs Williams, for the wonderful cakes - a different cake extravaganza for each lesson of the day.