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Oxford Online School

Key Stage 3

🔬 Science

Build a strong foundation in biology, chemistry and physics through a Lower Secondary Science course with live lessons, practical enquiry and expert teacher support.

Overview

Lower Secondary Science develops students’ understanding of biology, chemistry and physics through an enquiry-based approach. Students learn to ask scientific questions, plan investigations and interpret evidence, building the skills and knowledge needed for IGCSE Science.

The course covers a broad range of scientific concepts in line with the English National Curriculum, helping students develop scientific literacy and the confidence to engage with the natural world.

What Students Study

  • scientific knowledge and conceptual understanding in the areas of biology, chemistry and physics
  • understanding of the nature, processes and methods of science through scientific enquiry, which helps them to answer scientific questions on the world around them
  • learning of how to apply observational, practical and enquiry-based skills to the world around them
  • their ability to evaluate claims based on science through critical

Assessment & Progress

Lower Secondary Science consists of one externally-set achievement test: Written examination: 1 hour 20 minutes.

Course Details

Assessment

There are no external exams for this subject - only internal assessments.

Course Duration

The Lower Secondary programme runs over three years (Years 7 to 9). Students have access to live online lessons, regular teacher support and structured learning resources throughout Key Stage 3.

Entry Requirements

  • Students should be aged 11 to 14 at the start of the programme (Year 7 entry)
  • A prior school report or internal placement assessment is required
  • Students whose English is not their first language must sit an internal English assessment or provide evidence of English proficiency at an appropriate level
  • Two years of previous school reports are required
FAQs

Frequently asked questions

Have questions about Science? Here are some of the key things families often want to know.

Next steps

Continue your learning journey

Lower Secondary builds the skills and knowledge students need to thrive at IGCSE and beyond. Find out how to enrol or speak to our team.