Hopescourt School – KS3 Science Curriculum Intent 

At Hopescourt, our KS3 Science curriculum ignites curiosity, builds resilience, and prepares pupils for life as confident learners. We follow the AQA KS3 Science Framework, ensuring that pupils develop secure knowledge, practical skills, and a love for discovery across biology, chemistry, and physics. Through adaptive, hands-on lessons, we make science meaningful, inclusive, and exciting for all learners. 

Engagement – Learning with Courage 

Our pupils learn through exploration, questioning, and practical investigation. Topics such as cells and microscopy, body systems and digestion, reproduction, ecosystems, and adaptation help pupils understand how living things function and interact. We use real-world examples — from the human body to climate change — to make learning relevant and accessible. Adaptive teaching, visuals, and sensory experiences ensure all pupils can engage and succeed. 

Aspiration – Thrive through Ambition 

We set high expectations for every learner. Knowledge is sequenced carefully to deepen understanding and long-term recall — moving from basic ideas (like particle models and organ functions) to more complex scientific reasoning (such as diffusion, inheritance, and energy transfer). Pupils are encouraged to think like scientists: planning investigations, analysing data, and communicating their findings confidently. Specialist SEN strategies support access while stretching pupils to reach beyond their starting points. 

Future Ready – Preparation for Adulthood 

KS3 Science develops transferable life skills — observation, teamwork, resilience, and curiosity. Pupils learn to interpret everyday science, make informed decisions, and build confidence in communication. These experiences prepare them not just for GCSE study, but for the wider world — nurturing critical thinkers who are ready to take the next step in their education and in life. 

In Science at Hopescourt, pupils explore with courage, think with purpose, and flourish through understand.

Hopescourt School – KS4 Science Curriculum Intent 

At KS4, Science at Hopescourt builds on the strong foundations of KS3 and supports pupils in achieving success in AQA GCSE Single Science (Biology). Our curriculum balances rigour with accessibility — enabling pupils to connect scientific knowledge to the real world, their health, and their future pathways. 

Engagement – Learning with Courage 

Learning is practical, purposeful, and linked to real-life contexts. Pupils explore core topics from the AQA GCSE Biology specification, including cell biology, organisation and the human body, infection and response, bioenergetics, homeostasis, inheritance, variation, and ecology. Each unit is designed to promote curiosity and active participation, using demonstrations, experiments, and models that make abstract ideas tangible. Adaptive teaching and supportive resources ensure that every pupil can access challenging scientific ideas confidently. 

Aspiration – Thrive through Ambition 

We maintain ambitious expectations for all learners. Pupils are guided to master key terminology, apply mathematical and analytical skills, and evaluate evidence. Through retrieval practice, structured questioning, and reflection, they become more independent and self-aware scientists. Our approach celebrates small successes and encourages perseverance — empowering learners to reach their personal best in GCSE assessments and beyond. 

Future Ready – Preparation for Adulthood 

Science at KS4 equips pupils with the skills and understanding they need for further education, apprenticeships, and employment. They learn to think critically about global issues such as health, sustainability, and biotechnology, and to appreciate how science influences daily life. By developing problem-solving, reasoning, and collaboration, pupils leave Hopescourt ready to make informed choices and contribute positively to society. 

Through Science, our pupils develop curiosity, courage, and clarity — prepared to flourish in a future filled with possibility.