The vision of the Physics Department at Lawrence Sheriff School is ‘to develop a curiosity and understanding of the universe and the laws that govern its behaviour’. We want to foster an environment where students are encouraged to ask challenging questions, investigate interesting phenomena that they discover in lesson and look beyond the curriculum to understand how the world around them works.

In the last twenty years, the number of students taking demanding A Level courses such as Physics has decreased steadily. In comparison, Lawrence Sheriff has seen growth year on year as more students have joined us on their A Level Physics journeys. We have also expanded our teaching department to three full time Physics teachers with a range of different specialisms between them, giving us a breadth and depth in teaching that is difficult to find elsewhere.

Our results are excellent, with 70-80% of students at GCSE achieving Grade 7-9 each year and many of our A Level students going on to prestigious universities like Cambridge, Imperial College and UCL to study STEM-related courses.

Years 7-8

Year 7 and 8 students are taught all three sciences by the same teacher, a Science specialist, with three week blocks of each science taught at a time.

The Physics components of the course aim to provide a broad foundation from which students can go on to succeed at GCSE. Year 7s are taught about Energy, Waves and Electricity, whilst Year 8 are taught about Motion, Forces and Space.

Years 9

Year 9 is a transition year for our students. This is the first year that they are taught by dedicated Biology, Chemistry and Physics teachers for each of the three sciences.

In Physics, we have handpicked appropriate topics from the GCSE Course that allow our students to develop the foundational skills needed to succeed at GCSE. This includes the study of Energy, Particles and Waves, all of which are taught with the rigour of GCSE but adjusted to meet the needs of the National Curriculum for Science.

Students then start being taught their full GCSE at the end of Year 9 / start of Year 10.

Year 10-11

Course: Physics GCSE
Board: Edexcel
Specification Code: 1PH0
Website: https://qualifications.pearson.com
How course is assessed: Two 1 hour 45 minute papers.

Years 12-13

Course: Physics A level
Board: Edexcel
Specification Code: 9PH0
Website: https://qualifications.pearson.com
How course is assessed: Three examination papers (Paper 1 30%, Paper 2 30% and Paper 3 40%)

Students’ views …

“Inspired greater interest in the subject” “A variety of visual aids and experiments were used to explain theories” “Supported me, answered my questions, and helped me when I was stuck!” “Opportunity for lunchtime and after school advice and revision was invaluable”

Sixth Form Prospectus - please click here 

The chemistry department has two main goals. Firstly we aim to facilitate a love of Chemistry for the students, based on a want to learn about how the natural world works and secondly we work to develop future Scientists, Engineers, Medics and others involved in these fields.

To achieve these goals the chemistry department makes use of a combination of theoretical and practical work. These are combined in a way to promote independence of learning and intellectual rigour.

Our success is built upon the work of our specialist chemistry teachers, all of whom work hard to achieve the best outcome possible for every single pupil. The department is well resourced with three well-equipped chemistry laboratories. Expectations and levels of commitment from staff and pupils are very high. However, the principal reason for our success is the department’s ability to share its enthusiasm for chemistry in such a way that every pupil believes they have the ability to succeed and is motivated to do so.

Years 7 and 8

Year 7 and 8 are taught in Science classes by one teacher. They rotate between Chemistry, Biology and Physics topics. The Chemistry Topics they cover during this time include:

Year 7: Particles and their Behaviour, Elements & the Periodic Table and Separation Techniques.

Year 8: Chemical Reactions, Acids & Alkalis and the Earth & Resources.

Year 9: The Foundation of Chemistry

During year 9 students will begin to develop the knowledge and skills required to make them successful in their GCSE studies. They begin by studying topics that have strong links with later content during year 9 and into years 10 and 11. They also complete practical work during these topics and there is a focus on the required skills needed during practical work.

The topics covered in Year 9 include: States of Matter & Mixtures, Atomic Structure & the Periodic Table, Bonding & Types of Substance, Fuels and Earth Science, Hydrocarbons and Polymers and Alcohols and Carboxylic Acids. 

GCSE Course offered: GCSE Chemistry Board: Edexcel Specification code: 2CH01 Website: https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/edexcel-gcses/sciences-2016

Topics covered in Years 10 and 11 include:

Year 10: Calculations involving Masses, Groups in the Periodic Table, Transition Metals, Alloys and Corrosion, Acids, Testing for Ions and Electrolysis. Year 11: Obtaining and Using Metals, Quantitative Analysis, Rates of Reactions, Heat Energy Changes in Chemical Reactions and Reversible Reactions, Equilibria and Cells.

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Click here for the sixth form prospectus

 

The Art and Design department at Lawrence Sheriff School provides a creative and engaging environment where students can develop their artistic skills and personal expression. The accommodation includes two dedicated studio that support practical learning across a wide range of disciplines. These flexible spaces encourage both independent and collaborative work.

The department also benefits from a dedicated Sixth Form studio, providing older students with space for independent study and portfolio development. This specialist area supports more ambitious projects and helps prepare students for higher education and creative careers. The studio creates a focused and professional atmosphere for advanced artistic practice.

The department is well stocked with a wide range of materials, equipment, and resources. Students have opportunities to work in printmaking, animation, clay, textiles, fine art, and 3D art and photography allowing them to explore both traditional and contemporary creative techniques. This variety of media ensures a rich and inspiring learning experience for all students.  Dedicated IT facilities are available in the adjacent Technology department for all learners to access.

In Years 7 and 8, students receive Art and Design through a rotation system alongside other subjects, completing three art modules during the academic year. Each module lasts approximately six weeks and consists of four lessons per fortnight. Within these modules, students undertake a range of individual units of work, exploring different art materials, processes, and techniques to develop their creative skills and understanding of visual arts.

Year 7

The Year 7 scheme of learning, Identity, introduces students to the fundamental skills of observation and drawing through the study of facial proportions and anatomical features. Students develop their understanding of line, tone, shading, and composition while building confidence in accurately recording what they see. They then explore the work of Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque, investigating Cubism and learning how artists can represent identity through abstraction, fragmentation, and multiple viewpoints.

As the project progresses, students apply these ideas to cartoon and caricature work, experimenting with exaggeration, expression, and character design. This encourages creativity while further developing drawing, visual communication, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills. In the final rotation, students are introduced to animation and filmmaking, where they learn the principles of storyboarding, sequencing, movement, and digital media. The study of animation highlights the importance of visual storytelling within contemporary creative industries and introduces students to potential career pathways in areas such as film, television, gaming, advertising, marketing, graphic design, and digital content creation.

Year 8

A new scheme of work for 2026-2027 is being launched, Africa.  This introduces students to the rich diversity of African art, culture, and visual traditions through a range of practical and creative projects. Students begin by developing their observational drawing skills, studying African masks, landscapes, wildlife, and patterns while refining their understanding of line, tone, shape, and composition. Through these activities, students gain a greater appreciation of the ways in which art reflects cultural identity, heritage, and storytelling.

As the project develops, students explore a variety of materials and processes, including mixed media, batik, marbling, and printmaking. They investigate the use of colour, pattern, texture, and symbolism within African art and apply these ideas to their own creative outcomes. These activities encourage experimentation and help students develop technical skills, creativity, resilience, and confidence in using a range of artistic techniques.

Year 9

The Year 9 Scheme of Learning is designed to develop and extend the knowledge, skills, and understanding required for success at GCSE Art and Design, while introducing students to the working practices and Assessment Objectives (AOs) of the AQA GCSE specification.

Throughout the year, students engage in a broad range of creative activities that encourage inquiry, experimentation, and independent thinking. These include mind mapping, artist research, photography, gallery visits, observational drawing, annotation, and the development of personal responses to a variety of themes and stimuli. Students learn how to investigate and explore ideas effectively, recording their observations and inspirations while building a deeper understanding of artistic processes.

Media

Students are encouraged to experiment confidently with a wide range of materials, techniques, and processes, including drawing, painting, printmaking, mixed media, textiles, digital media, and three-dimensional work. Through practical investigation, they develop their ability to refine ideas, make informed creative decisions, and communicate visual concepts effectively. Alongside technical skill development, students strengthen their creative thinking, independence, critical analysis, and evaluative skills.

Coursework Launch

Following the Easter break, students begin their GCSE coursework project, providing an early and valuable introduction to the demands and expectations of the GCSE course. This allows students to establish strong foundations for their portfolio, undertake sustained investigations, and begin developing a more personal and meaningful direction within their work. By commencing this major project in Year 9, students enter Year 10 with increased confidence, creativity, and a clear understanding of the GCSE Art and Design journey ahead.

Year 10 and 11

NEA

In GCSE Art, students complete two assessed components. The Non-Exam Assessment (NEA) is worth 60% of the final grade and is developed throughout Years 10 and 11. Students explore a theme through research, artist studies, experimentation and practical work, leading to a final outcome.

ESA

The Externally Set Assignment (ESA) is worth 40% of the final grade and takes place in Year 11. Students respond to a theme set by the exam board, developing ideas before producing a final piece during a supervised 10-hour practical examination.

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Sixth Form prospectus - Please click here

Music at Lawrence Sheriff School is a compulsory subject in year 7 and 8 and is taught by two teachers: Mr Watson-Tate and Mrs Welch. We are also a popular subject at GCSE with two GCSE classes in years 9, 10 and 11 and an enthusiastic A Level class. We have our own building: Penhros House with lots of practice rooms, a dedicated IMac suite and a wide range of equipment. We are proud that the music department is a loud, busy and welcoming department before and after school and at break and lunch with a strong community across all year groups.

Within in the Music department at LSS we believe that everyone can learn to perform, compose and listen critically to music. We challenge all students regardless of whether or not they learn a musical instrument. Our lessons are practical and fun whilst also ensuring that students understand the building blocks of music and how music is constructed. Students will also learn a range of transferable skills such as team work, creativity and performance.

In year 7 and 8 students have 1 lesson a week in classes of 15. We complete 4 projects a year, which allows us to explore each topic in depth and enables the students to all feel a sense of achievement.

In year 7 the students learn to perform ‘Minuet in G’ by J.S. Bach on the piano, whilst also learning about notation and how melody is constructed. They also learn how to play the ukulele, how chords are constructed and perform the pop song ‘5 Years Time’ in a group. We also focus on composing skills and the students complete two projects in our IMac suite learning how to use both Logic and Sibelius by composing a fanfare and a classical piece for the piano, whilst also learning about notation, dynamics and rhythm.

In year 8 we develop these skills further performing ‘In the Hall of the Mountain King’ on the piano, whilst also learning about the Romantic period and accidentals and chromaticism. The students then perform ‘Stand by Me’ in a group creating their own version and gaining important performance skills. Students develop their composing skills further; learning how to compose a pop song, using Rick Astley as inspiration. We then build on their skills from year 7 composing a more sophisticated piece for the piano looking at a range of piano accompaniment styles and what makes an effective melody.

At GCSE we follow the Edexcel course (https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/edexcel-gcses/music-2016.html). In year 9 we continue to build up their composing, performing and appraising skills by looking at a range of styles, composing in lots of different genres and having regular opportunities to perform, both as an ensemble and a soloist. One of the requirements of the GCSE course is that students must have regular instrumental lessons and we would advise that student be at grade 1 standard or above at the start of Year 9 to enable them to achieve strong results once in year 11. However every year we have enthusiastic and hardworking students who love their year 7 and 8 music lessons and begin learning a music instrument at the start of year 9 and many of them have achieved a grade 9 in Music.

In year 10 and 11 we study the 8 set works from the Edexcel specification:

• Bach’s Brandenburg Concerto
• Beethoven’s Piano Sonata Pathetique: movement I
• Purcell’s ‘Music for a While’
• ‘Killer Queen’ by Queen
• ‘Defying Gravity’ by Stephen Schwartz
• Star Wars: Episode IV by John Williams
• ‘Release’ by Afro Celt Sound System
• ‘Samba Em Preludio’ by Esperanza Spalding.

Students will learn about to analyse these set works in the context of their period and genre.

Students will also complete their coursework (60% of the GCSE) by composing 2 compositions and performing as a soloist and in an ensemble.

Extra-Curricular Music at Lawrence Sheriff School

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Sixth Form Prospectus

.Religion, Philosophy and Ethics is taught across all years and abilities. It is compulsory up to and including Year 11.

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Sixth Form Prospectus - Please click here

PE Dept.

The PE Department is made up of 4 specialist teachers;
Mr Howells Head of PE and MiC of Football. 
Mr Sellers Head of House and MiC of Hockey. 
Mr Gregory Head of House and MiC of Cricket. 
Mr Barton MiC of Rugby.

Our curriculum is designed to offer breadth and range whilst affording plenty of time to traditional sports. We aim to give all students the opportunity to learn and enjoy a variety of physical activities whilst educating them about the benefits of a healthy and active lifestyle.

Sports covered as part of the PE Curriculum include; Rugby, Football, Hockey, Cricket, Basketball, Fitness, Gymnastics, Cross-Country, Athletics, Badminton, Tennis, Rounders, Softball, Ultimate Frisbee, Dodgeball, Handball, Volleyball, Table Tennis.

Typically students benefit from 6 PE lessons per fortnight, 2 x Singles, 1 x Double and 1 x Double Games.

- Single PE lessons are based at school and are 45 minutes long.

- Double PE lessons are usually delivered at Hart Field and are between 60-90 minutes long.

- Double Games lessons are delivered at Hart Field in the afternoons are 90 minutes long.

Students have the chance to represent the school and compete in both extra-curricular sport and inter-house competitions.

A-Level PE

So that we may play our part in helping students with a passion for our subject follow a career in sport we offer a two year A-Level PE course overseen by the exam board OCR. It is a thorough and rigorous programme of study where students are expected to be assessed practically in one sport, complete a verbal analysis examination as well as written exams covering; Applied Anatomy & Physiology, Exercise Physiology, Skill Acquisition, Sports Psychology, Contemporary Issues in Sport, Sport & Society, and Biomechanics.

Typically students will be taught in small groups utilising the expertise of 3 different teachers across 6 lessons per week.

Our students go on to study courses such as Sport & Exercise Science, Sport, Physical Education & Coaching Sciences, Physiotherapy, and Sports Management Studies at some of the top academic institutions.

PE Uniform School Uniform/PE Kit September 2026-2027

• Gilbert House Rugby Jersey – the reversible colour depends upon the House the student is associated with.
• Gilbert Navy blue rugby shorts
• Gilbert Navy blue socks
• Rugby/football boots
• Shin pads – COMPULSORY (Football& Hockey)
• Mouth guard – COMPULSORY (Rugby& Hockey)
• Scrum Cap – COMPULSORY (Rugby)

• Gilbert White T-Shirt with the LSS Griffin – the colour depends upon the House the student is associated with.
• Gilbert white shorts
• Plain white socks
• Trainers – no mixed footwear or ‘barefoot’ is permitted in PE for any activity.
  
  No student will be allowed to partake in any activity without the correct physical education uniform.  All kit must be labelled or marked with the students name.
  We have a range of Gilbert training gear that is available to purchase (see the school shop website).

Illness or Injured Policy

If a student is ill or injured and feel that they need to be excused from physical education then they will need to bring in a letter from their parent or guardian.  This will have to be handed to the physical education teacher at registration of that lesson.  Students are still required to attend this lesson as this letter will excuse them from physical activity but not from the lesson.

Furthermore students will be required to bring their physical education kit and get changed. This means students are still taking part in the lesson in another role. We expect All students to get changed even if injured and take part in the lesson in another capacity (coach/leader/official). Students should attend the lesson with extra kit to keep warm and dry etc. This ensures that everyone is taking an active role in the lesson.

For long-term absenteeism, a doctor’s note will be requested.

Please do not hesitate to get in touch if you have any questions about PE at Lawrence Sheriff School.