Nothing in life is to be feared;
it is only to be understood.

- Marie Curie

At Hitchin Girls’ School, we believe that young people have an inherent interest in how the world works, and actively care about issues that affect the world and themselves. We want to encourage this Scientific curiosity, and help students develop the knowledge and skills required to answer the questions they have about the natural world and scientific phenomena. We strive to ensure that every student leaves our school having reached their potential, as well as with a broad and balanced understanding of Science for further study and life.

Teaching styles

There are 13 teaching staff in the department, and all staff teach across KS3. Staff tend to specialise in KS4 and KS5 in one or two subject areas. Science teaching involves a wide range of styles. It is heavily based on practical work, but also involves discussion, group work and investigation. 

Facilities

We have a purpose-built block with eleven laboratories. All laboratories are well equipped with data projectors/desktops and appropriate scientific apparatus for experiments. There are five technicians that support teaching staff with the delivery of practical work.

Homework

Homework is set on a regular basis in line with the school Homework Policy. In Year 7, students receive two 30-minute slots of homework. This may involve written work, reading or research. Students use an online homework platform called Educake, which is also an additional tool to consolidate their knowledge.

Grouping

Grouping in Science is usually decided on a year-by-year basis, with results of end-of- module tests and end-of-year exams determining the setting of each student. 

Extracurricular

In previous years, the following extracurricular activities have been offered by the Science Department:

Biology Society - a lunchtime club run by Year 12 Biology students and teachers enabling Year 7 students to undertake lots of fun biology-based activities and practicals.

Science Club - a lunchtime club run by Year 12 Science students and teachers, for Year 7 and 8 students who enjoy doing practicals and investigations. 

Trips and Events (recent events have included the following)

Years 7 and 8 Science Fair at HGS

Year 10 Science trip to GCSE Science Live! in Cambridge

Year 12 Chemistry trip to Chemistry Live! in London

Year 9 trip to the Big Bang Fair in St Albans

Year 10 trip to Aston Martin Factory in Warwickshire

Year 12 trip to GSK in Stevenage

Year 9 trip to MBDA in Stevenage

Year 12 trip to Roche Pharmaceuticals in Welwyn

Biology Expedition

During Years 12 and 13, students are given the opportunity to take part in an international conservation expedition. In the past, we visited Mozambique, South Africa, Indonesia, Dominica, Tanzania, Malawi and Honduras.

Biology A Level students are given priority for places but all of Years 12 and 13 are invited to apply. On the expedition, we spend one week in a terrestrial environment such as a rain or cloud forest, and we spend the second week on marine conservation, where students learn to dive and can obtain a PADI open water qualification. In addition, students attend lectures and workshops with biologists who are world experts in their field.

These expeditions are offered every two years so all students have the opportunity to apply. The planning takes place up to two years in advance so that they have time to fundraise. Students find this an inspiring experience and sometimes it is life-changing, as many go on to use their skills to enhance UCAS applications and pursue related careers.