Science
Science has become such an integral part of everyday experience that a comprehensive knowledge of Science has become more necessary for each person to be able to understand the world around them. This knowledge enables us to make informed decisions about a wide range of everyday activities. There are so many new technological and medical developments, as well as threats to our environment, and many of these require informed ethical decisions – from global warming to the cost of medicines, genetic engineering to the use of robots, to name a few! We must all become capable and informed enough to take part in these discussions and decisions about these issues. No longer can anyone abandon the study of Science simply because they do not imagine themselves following a Science-based career. The Science that students undertake at Sacred Heart College is directed at arming them with the information and skills to be able to make a meaningful contribution to society in the 21st century.
Years 7 to 10
Years 7 to 10 have a general Science course, covering a range of topics within the headings of 'material world', 'physical world', 'living world' and 'planet Earth and beyond'. This is compulsory for all students. There is a Year 10 class that completes a NCEA Level 1 course.
Year 11
In Year 11, Science is divided into different courses and all students must undertake one of these but may take two. These courses are:
- Applied Science for those who find Science quite challenging
- Agricultural Science for those who are interested in horticulture, viticulture, apiculture and agriculture
- Biological Sciences for those interested in Biology and Chemistry
- Physical Science for those interested in Physics and Chemistry
Years 12 and 13
Year 12 Chemistry and Year 13 Chemistry are offered to students who have reached a suitable level of Chemistry in Year 11; similarly, Year 12 and Year 13 Biology and Physics are available to students who have reached a suitable level in these disciplines in Years 11 and 12. Agriculture will be offered in Year 12 for the first time in 2020.
Where Does Science Lead?
Science can lead to careers in astronomy, meteorology, geophysics, medicine (e.g. surgery, general practice and radiology), chemical, mechanical and civil engineering, architecture, surveying, telecommunications, computing and teaching. It can allow students to become pilots, technicians, electricians, laboratory technicians or technologists. It can also open up careers in beekeeping, wine growing, farm management and the dairy industry.
The Science Department Staff
