It is our firm belief that Science is mankind's greatest endeavour, and therefore it is essential that future generations have a good understanding of Science in an increasingly complex technological age.
If you ask what we are about in the Science Department it can be summarised in one simple aim; "to provide an environment in which all our students feel equally valued, and are given the tools, resources and opportunities to reach their full potential in their ability to understand and apply Science" (Science Department Handbook 2005-06).
Although this at first may seem a very simple and bland statement it embodies some values which we believe are central to our approach to teaching. Whilst giving our students the best opportunities to excel in their studies in terms of examination success this is not our sole desire or aim. We value all students and the individual efforts that they bring to their studies of Science. We strive to generate learning opportunities, and environments, which actively support the student's ability to internalise the Science we teach. To facilitate this we ensure that the class room environment is controlled, calm and well structured to support learning.
We also seek to empower all our students by giving them the skills needed to become independent and critical thinkers, and to be competent at experimental investigations, and this is the driving force behind our innovative approach to teaching Science at Key stage 3 (year 9).
In 2004 Cranbrook was awarded Science Specialist Status which has enabled us to both expand our teaching within the school and to make significant inroads into the wider community. The following is just a brief flavour of what Science Status has, and will continue to bring to both Cranbrook school and the local community:
• Built an Observatory to house the 22.5" telescope gifted to the school
• Refurbished the schools laboratories
• Started new Science courses
• Employed new staff
• Science clubs
• Science events
• Teaching in local primary schools
• Founding of local science society CADSAS
• Courses for the local community
• OU module units for sixth form students
• Summer school
• Easter revision school
We could go on about innovations in teaching through ICT provisions or better use of assessment but to be honest it would just sound like bragging.
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