Science

Welcome to the Science Department

At St Ursula's we are proud to have such an experienced science department with teachers and support staff dedicated to ensuring the best possible outcome for our students. With each teacher having access to their own teaching lab with the equipment required to complete all required practical lessons and additional practical lessons in both key stage 3 and stage 4, we aim to help our students find their love of science. I have outlined the rationale behind the science curriculum at St Ursula’s in the Science Curriculum Intent. In our Science Learning Journey, you can find the order in which we teach our curriculum and the topics that we will cover. 

Thank you for your interest in the St Ursula’s science department. Below you will find statements from each of our experienced science staff about their experience and why they have chosen to teach at St Ursula’s.

Mr A Tyerman

Head of Science

“I started in education as a science teacher with a Physics speciality in 1994, the year of the Shawshank Redemption, Pulp Fiction and Forest Gump for those that are able to remember! I initially became a teacher as I had a passion for my subject and wanted to test my ability to be able to share this with young people and to see if I could make a difference. As time has passed I have developed, grown and gained skills and experience through inhabiting a number of in-school roles from Head of Year, Assistant Head and  Deputy Head. In a wider context, I have worked in a Local Authority as an Educational Consultant for Teaching and Learning, and more recently as one of the Directors of a private company whose goal was to train teachers. At this stage in my life, I had a real urge to return to the ‘chalk face’ and to work in a classroom again as I have really missed the day-to-day interaction with students and the teaching of science. I was attracted to St Ursula’s because of the school's previous reputation and because of the dynamism and enthusiasm of the young people that I met when on interview. I am happy and enthused to be part of a team that puts students and learning at the heart of its agenda and am excited to be part of the future of the school.”

Mr P. Colgrave

Science teacher

“As Albert Einstein once said, “It is the supreme art of the teacher to awaken joy in creative expression and knowledge.” I strongly believe that teaching should be both fun and fulfilling. When students are engaged, curious, and excited about learning, the process becomes an enjoyable and rewarding experience for everyone involved, creating a lasting impact that goes beyond academics.

I began my professional journey as the Medicines Management Lead at Lewisham Hospital, where I supported young patients on the ward. This experience not only refined my clinical and leadership abilities but also ignited a profound passion for teaching and learning, as I saw first-hand the importance of guidance and support in the development of young individuals. Motivated by this experience, I transitioned into education, initially serving as Subject Lead for KS3, where I took pride in designing and delivering dynamic, engaging curricula that fostered curiosity and a love for learning. My approach centred on making complex scientific concepts accessible and relevant, creating a classroom environment where students felt confident to ask questions, explore new ideas, and develop critical thinking skills. 

As my career progressed, I took on more leadership responsibilities, becoming Head of Year, where I was entrusted with the pastoral care and academic development of an entire year group. In this role, I ensured that students received the support they needed to thrive, providing guidance on both academic and personal matters. I worked closely with colleagues, parents, and external agencies to ensure that each student’s well-being, safety, and individual needs were met, understanding that a secure and supportive environment is crucial for fostering academic success.

Later, I moved into the role of Head of A-Level Biology, where I led the department in developing and delivering a rigorous and stimulating curriculum. I took great pride in mentoring my colleagues and inspiring students to excel in their studies, with a particular focus on creating a classroom atmosphere that emphasised intellectual challenge, creativity, and independent thinking. Throughout these roles, I have remained steadfast in my belief that the well-being and emotional health of students must always be a top priority. By ensuring that students feel safe, supported, and valued, I have been able to help them not only achieve academic success but also grow in confidence and self-assurance, preparing them for future challenges.”

Ms N. Cheema

Science teacher.

“Ever since I can remember, education has ignited a fire within me—a fire fuelled by the incredible power teachers wield to shape not just students, but the very fabric of our society. My journey as an educator began on a momentous day, September 11, 1989, and since then, I have been on a thrilling adventure in teaching. Throughout my career, I’ve embraced a variety of leadership roles that have allowed me to make a lasting impact. As the Second in Charge (2iC) of Science, I collaborated closely with colleagues and students alike, fostering a vibrant learning environment. For five enriching years, I had the privilege of being the Lead Teacher of Physics, where my enthusiasm for the subject radiated in the classroom and inspired countless young minds. Additionally, my time as the Deputy Head of Year further honed my leadership skills, enabling me to guide and support students in their academic journeys. Physics is not just my specialism; it's my passion—a thrilling exploration of the universe that I am dedicated to sharing with others. My decision to join St. Ursula’s was deeply personal; living locally, I felt a strong calling to give back to my community. The school’s uplifting motto resonates with my core values, and I’m excited to play a pivotal role in shaping the lives of responsible, empowered young women. Together, we are not just learning about the world; we are preparing to change it.”

Mr E Eghwrudje

Science teacher

“I went into teaching by accident. I was living in Cusco, Peru near the Inca trail.  I was teaching English as a foreign language.  I met a friend of a friend who was a physics teacher in Brazil.  He told me to go back to London and train as a secondary teacher.  I went to King's College, University of London to study for a PGCE in Physics.  I was a teacher of Physics for 2 years then became Head of Physics.  After that, I moved into pastoral roles and was Head of Year, Head of Keystage 3, Head of Keystage 4 and then an Assistant Headteacher.  I enjoy enlightening students on scientific ideas and watching them exceed their targets as success is not a set number.” Ms S Sattar, science teacher and assistant headteacher.

“I have been a science technician for 41 years, and have worked in 14 schools, both faith and non-faith, across the London boroughs, as both a chemistry technician and biology technician. I spent 5 years working for Kings College University firstly as a pharmaceutical chemistry technician, then as a pharmacognosy technician (herbal drugs). I then spent a year working for the Ministry of Sport drug testing athletes. To gain experience in another field of science I worked for a year, in Forensic science in the ballistics department. I joined St Ursula’s school in 2007, and became part of the school's caring Christian community so that I could become part of a team that offers a spiritual dimension to young lives, helping students grow in mind, body, spirit and have the confidence to be aspirational, independent and have respect for themselves and other.”

Ms L. Mchale

Science lab technician.