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Big Increase In Number Of Sixth Formers Opting For Science Subjects

KSA’s specialism in science is paying off with record numbers of students opting to study the subject at A Level.

This September, the number of Sixth Formers taking biology A Level doubled to more 40 students. It was the same story with chemistry, with 23 students now opting for this science course and there are three times the number of students now studying physics with a class of 24.

The figures are the highest ever recorded by the Academy and is testament to its efforts to encourage more students to choose science as an academic pathway and a potential career.

This summer, 86% of year 11s achieved two GCSEs in science graded A* to C - a figure that was well above the national average.

Head of Science Jacki Cook said the introduction of a triple science GCSE award has helped to spark students' interest and the impressive GCSE results led to more students continuing their studies into Sixth Form.

Mrs Cook said: "I think the triple GCSE motivated them and meant that they are better equipped to move onto A Level. The aim is to make sure these figures keep on rising and that more students have the option to go on to study science subjects at university."

Year 12 student Jatinder Singh, who achieved A*s and As in GCSE biology, chemistry and physics, is now taking all three at A Level. He said: "I have always enjoyed science and I want to do medicine at university so I need it. I think it's an interesting subject to take and the teachers are good."

To help even more students achieve, KSA introduced a BTEC in science which is the equivalent to two GCSEs. It saw 62% pass (the equivalent of a grade C), 26% achieved a Merit, 7% were awarded a Distinction (the equivalent of two A grades) and 5% attained a Distinction * (the equivalent of two A* grades).

This year, a science diploma is being introduced for the year 11 BTEC students to help them gain the equivalent of four GCSE grades.

KSA is also working in partnership with Tresham College and a number of students from the college now attend A Level physics classes at the Academy.