We have a good uptake of the
sciences at AS and A2 level, as a proportion of the Sixth Form as a whole.
Biology
Biology is a very popular subject at A level. We generally have two groups of
students in both Year 12 and 13. We follow the OCR specification. This is a
desirable (though not absolutely required) subject for courses such as medicine.
Many of our students do go on to study biological based courses at University,
such as Biology, Zoology and Physiology.
Chemistry
Chemistry is a popular subject at A level and we have two groups in Year 12
and one or two in Year 13. We follow the OCR specification. It is a required
subject for most students wishing to embark on courses such as Medicine,
Veterinary Science, Dentistry and Pharmacy. It is also useful for students going
on to study Physics or any of the Biological Sciences.
Physics
We generally have one Physics group in each year that follows the OCR
specification. In recent years, two very talented students have gone on to
Oxford to study Physics.
Psychology
A popular and exciting subject, very relevant to sixth form life, concerning
human behaviour and the workings of the human mind. The study of Psychology at
Farnborough Hill involves lively discussion and a variety of learning
activities. Psychology is now recognised as a science and there is increasing
emphasis on methodology and research. The specification is AQA.
All these subjects are taught for 9 periods a week at A level, which we
generally split between two teachers.
Nuffield Bursary Scheme
Girls in the lower sixth are encouraged to
apply for Nuffield Bursaries to allow them to do four weeks of scientific
research during their summer vacation. This is usually hosted by local companies
or educational establishments. The participating students all receive Gold BA
Crest Awards and the best project in Surrey goes on to the
Royal Society with others from across the country.