The first aim of the department is to encourage and sustain girls’ interest in - and enjoyment of - Science. We aim to make them aware that science is going on all around them and has implications for each individual, the community and the environment.

Science is taught in Years 7 and 8 as a combined, topic-based subject and each group has one teacher. From Year 9 onwards the girls study Biology, Chemistry and Physics and are taught by specialist teachers.  At GCSE most girls will achieve two Science qualifications: Core Science and Additional Science.

Some girls will have the opportunity to take the three separate science GCSEs: Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Either of these routes will give girls a broad curriculum and provides an excellent foundation for girls wishing to continue with Science to AS or A Level. In the Sixth Form, AS and A Level Biology, Chemistry and Physics are offered; excellent results have been achieved in all three and many girls pursue Science-related subjects at university.

Thérèse Davidson, Head of Chemistry and Head of Science

Mrs Thérèse Davidson, BSc Hons. Chemistry (Leicester), PGCE

Thérèse started her teaching career at St Michael’s Grammar School for Girls in North London. After a short career break to have her two children, she returned to teach at Haberdashers’ Aske’s School for Girls in Elstree. Her next appointment was as Head of Chemistry at St Martha’s Senior School in Hadley Wood where she became Head of Science in 1992. Thérèse joined Queenswood as Head of Science in 1997.

She has been an examiner for many years, initially at GCSE level but now for Chemistry at AS and A2 Level. Her main hobby is singing and she sings in two choirs, performing regular concerts and recording sessions.