Willoughby Girls High School

A Leader in Girls Education

Telephone02 9958 4141

Emailwilloughbg-h.school@det.nsw.edu.au

Science

Science is mandatory for all students from Year 7 to Year 10.

Science 7-10 provides a way of inquiring about the world around us. It explores evidence and investigates ways to discover, develop and produce solutions to real-world problems. Science emphasises the skills for working scientifically, as well as critical and creative thinking to address scientific issues.

In Years 11 and 12, students can choose from different science disciplines, including:

  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Earth and Environmental Science
  • Investigating Science
  • Physics.

In Year 12, students who are studying at least one other science subject may also choose to study Science Extension.

In the senior years, students have the opportunity to further their studies in science through undertaking Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Senior Science. In addition to the core curriculum, students participate in several extracurricular activities that may include the International Competitions and Assessments for Schools (ICAS) science competition, Australian chemistry quiz 11 to 12 and the olympiads in physics, chemistry and biology.

A ‘hands on’ reptiles experience allows Year 7 students to appreciate the delicate balance in natural communities. Excursions are held in each year, for example the Year 10 ‘physics is fun’ Luna Park excursion, the Year 12 Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO) physics excursion and the Year 11 biology field trip.

The Sustainability Garden Project was introduced in 2014, allowing the students to perform various investigations and grow their produce based on the results obtained from their individual research projects. The purpose of this project is to promote greater awareness of sustainability, increase understanding of our environment, and enhance studies in biology across all year groups. The Blue Print Science Club engages the girls in discussions of genetics issues to pursue their science interest.