What laboratories are available for teaching science in Years 7 and 8?

There are three laboratories at Broadway: Lab1, Lab2, and Lab3.

To avoid unnecessary duplication of resources, and the movement of resources between laboratories, each laboratory has its own unique function in the delivery of KS3 .  ll laboratories are fully occupied when science is timetabled.

Classes rotate between laboratories, approximately every six weeks.

Laboratory 1

This is designated as the Biology laboratory, and is used to deliver the SC2 component of KS3 for Years 7 and 8.

It also is fitted with 10 multimedia PC computer systems. There is also an interactive whiteboard and a projector installed. The number of PC’s has reduced the working area for other science activities. The gas and water facilities have also been reduced, as a result of the installation. There is only a limited storage area for bags.

Laboratory 2

This is designated the Chemistry laboratory, and is used to deliver the SC3 component of KS3 for Years 7 and 8. The benches are fixed, and there is little provision for alteration of seating arrangements. There is only a limited area for the storage of bags. The fabric/construction of this laboratory is poor.

Laboratory 3

This is designated as the Physics laboratory, and is used to deliver the SC4 component of KS3 for Years 7 and 8. This laboratory, refurbished over 14 years ago, provides a different arrangement of resources. Each bench has its own supply of gas, water, electricity, and lighting units; vacuum lines are also installed. There is some facility for arranging the working areas, There is some storage area for bags. There is a problem with amplification of sound in this laboratory, mainly due to the absence of soft furnishings, and the presence of hard reflecting surfaces. The laboratory has been subject to flooding for the last two years, originating from below the building.