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Science at The Yehudi Menuhin School


The aim of the science department at The Yehudi Menuhin School is to encourage students to question the world around them and make judgments, based on scientific evidence.


For science studied at Key Stage 2 please look at the Junior overview.

In Key Stage 3 the programme of study is designed to encourage interest, enthusiasm, thinking skills, practical investigative skills, working in a team, and communication skills. Using these skills and through different media we cover the content of the national curriculum. Examination technique and revision strategies are also taught.

The main text books used are Exploring Science (Working Scientifically) 7, 8 and 9. A variety of other materials are also drawn upon.

Chemistry, Biology and Physics topics are covered in each of the three years.

At Key Stage 4 all pupils study Combined Science resulting in one IGSCE, or Co-ordinated Science which results in two IGCSEs. Both courses are run by the Cambridge board and include units of Biology, Chemistry and Physics. There are three Science exams that need to be completed after the two years of IGCSE.

At Key Stage 5 Biology and Chemistry A level course are offered. We follow the OCR Biology specification and the Edexcel Chemistry specification.

Biology AS consists of three units: Unit 1 - Foundation Biology; Unit 2 - Exchange and Transport; Unit 3 - Biodiversity, Evolution and Disease. Biology A2 consists of two units: Unit 1 - Communications, Homeostasis and Energy; Unit 2 – Genetics and Evolution. There is also a Science Practical Endorsement.

Chemistry AS consists of two units: Unit 1 - Core Inorganic and Physical Chemistry; Unit 2 - Core Organic Chemistry. Chemistry A2 consists of three units: Unit 1 - Advanced Inorganic and Physical Chemistry; Unit 2 - Advanced Organic Chemistry; Unit 3 - Advanced General Practical Principles in Chemistry. There is also a Science Practical Endorsement.

Teaching Staff

Teaching staff are well qualified and enthusiastic:

Key Stage 2 - Tony Chipps
Key Stage 3 - Karen Lyle, Jenny Dexter
Key Stage 4 - Karen Lyle, Jenny Dexter
Key Stage 5 Biology - Jenny Dexter, Karen Lyle
Key Stage 5 Chemistry - Karen Lyle

Recent Trips

Recent Science Trips have included:

The Big Bang Festival
Meet the Scientists in Wisley
Downs House (Darwin's Home)
Lectures in London
The Natural History Museum
The Science Museum