The Sciences
In the words of Bill Bryson: "I will never know another world, so I thought at least I should understand how this one works."
Studying Science at Sedbergh is something that encourages the curiosity and imagination of all our pupils as they learn about the world around them, how it works and mankind's impact on it.
We teach Biology, Chemistry and Physics separately to GCSE level, and sit Edexcel IGCSE examinations in the three separate sciences. Pupils for whom science is not a strength have the option of entering a Dual Science GCSE qualification. This is offered by the same board, still taught properly by subject specialists, and allows access to A' Level science courses. At A' Level, we offer the opportunity to study Geology as well as the three other sciences at both AS and A2, creating a challenging curriculum for any pupil with a flair for Science.
The Science Society
All subject departments within the Science faculty are fully involved in the Science Society of the School. This arranges talks and presentations from guest speakers and lecturers.
Recent topics have included:
- Your immune system - you can't live without it but can you live with it? by Dr Jane Calvert, Newcastle University
- Cellotape to fireflies - things that glow in the dark by Dr Paul Beaumont of SAPS
- Forensic Biology by Dr David Skingsley of Staffordshire University
- Is there a gene for happiness? Professor David Cove, Leeds University
- Drugs in Sport by Professor David Mottram, Liverpool John Moores University
- Human Fertility by Professor Michael Whitaker, Newcastle University
The Invisible College
The Invisible College is a Sixth Form society that encourages pupils to give scientific presentations to their peers. It meets twice a term and is entirely pupil-run; the only staff input is in the organisaiton of drinks and nibbles for each meeting! The College aims to help pupils become independent learners, and to give them a chance to experience how much fun science teaching can be.
Recent topics have included:
- Einstein versus Newton - who was the greatest scientist?
- Drugs in sport
- Robotics
- Why do chemical reactions happen?
- The environmental consequences of our need for energy.