The Crossley Heath School
Astronomy
Astronomy is a fascinating and constantly evolving subject that explores the universe beyond our planet and deepens our understanding of the cosmos. As space exploration becomes increasingly prominent in global discussions, from moon missions to Mars colonisation, the study of astronomy has never been more relevant. The rise of private space travel, climate concerns linked to Earth’s place in the solar system, and the discovery of potentially habitable exoplanets all highlight the need for greater scientific literacy in this field.
GCSE Astronomy gives students the chance to explore key scientific questions about the universe, such as how the solar system formed, why we experience day and night, and how we observe distant stars and galaxies. By studying a range of celestial objects and phenomena, students gain a deeper understanding of the motion, structure and history of the universe. The course encourages curiosity about space while grounding learning in real observations, data analysis and established scientific principles. Through this, students develop a strong appreciation for both the complexity of the cosmos and the methods scientists use to study it.
The subject requires curiosity, analytical thinking and a keen interest in observation and discovery. Students will gain experience in practical work, such as observing the night sky and using data to explore astronomical patterns and theories. These skills contribute not only to a scientific understanding of astronomy but also foster broader competencies in critical thinking, problem-solving and data analysis.
Astronomy encourages a sense of awe and wonder, while also promoting global awareness and responsibility. It aims to develop independent learners who can think logically, evaluate evidence, and appreciate the interconnectedness of science and society.
With access to a range of digital and observational tools, students enjoy a holistic experience of the subject, both theoretical and practical. It equips them with a broader perspective on life on Earth and inspires them to explore future careers in science, engineering, space exploration, and beyond.
GCSE Curriculum
Year 10:
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Planet Earth |
Students will gain an understanding of the planet Earth and its internal structure. They will learn about the major divisions on Earth’s surface and how its atmosphere affects observations. |
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Celestial Observation |
Students will gain an understanding of how to observe a variety of naked-eye astronomical phenomena. They will study how to plan their observations to be at the best time and location, taking into account effects such as weather and light pollution. |
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The Lunar Disc |
Students will gain an understanding of the Moon and its surface formations, and be able to identify some of the main features on its surface. Students will study the rotation and revolution of the Moon and the effect of libration. |
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Exploring the Moon |
Students will gain an understanding of the Moon, its internal structure and features on the far side. They will study how the constant drive to improve the accuracy, detail and range of observations has provided a context for the exploration of the Moon. |
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Solar System Observation |
Students will gain an understanding of how to observe the Sun and planets, including the locations of the planets in relation to the Earth and the Sun and safely observing the Sun. |
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Early Models of the Solar System |
Students will gain an understanding of how ancient civilisations observed the Solar System. They will also study how early astronomers modelled the Solar System. |
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Exploring the Solar System |
Students will investigate the main bodies in the Solar System and their characteristics. They will gain understanding that the constant drive to improve the accuracy, detail and range of observations has provided a context for the invention of the telescope, the development of the space telescope and probes to the outer reaches of our Solar System and has provided a context for the manned exploration of the Moon. |
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Solar Astronomy |
Students will gain an understanding of the structure of the Sun, its energy production process and the solar wind. Students will also use sunspot data to determine information about the Sun’s rotation period and the solar cycle. |
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Planetary Motion and Gravity |
Students will gain an understanding of the motion of the planets around the Sun and the role of gravity. They will study Kepler’s laws of planetary motion and Newton’s law of universal gravitation. |
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The Earth-Moon-Sun System |
Students will gain an understanding of the relationship between the Earth, Moon and Sun and how they affect each other. They will also study tides, precession and eclipses. |
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Time and the Earth-Moon-Sun Cycles |
Students will gain an understanding of astronomical definitions and measurements of time. They will study synodic and sidereal time, solstices and equinoxes and the need for time zones. |
Year 11:
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Formation of Planetary Systems |
Students will gain an understanding of how the interaction of gravitational and tidal forces led to the formation of our Solar System. They will use this information to study exoplanets and also the possibility of life existing elsewhere. |
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Exploring Starlight |
Students will gain an understanding of how stars are observed and how we can obtain information about them from just observing the light they emit. They will study the evolution of stars and different types of stars. Students will also find out why we observe stars in different parts of the electromagnetic spectrum and where telescopes are located to enable better observations to be made. |
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Stellar Evolution |
Students will gain an understanding of how and why stars evolve. They will study how stars form and how they end their life, depending on their size. |
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Our Place in the Galaxy |
Students will gain an understanding of the Milky Way, our place in it and how it fits into the Universe. They will study different types of galaxies and the main theories for their evolution. |
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Cosmology |
Students will gain an understanding of redshift and Hubble’s law for distant galaxies. They will also study the evidence and explanation for the expanding Universe. Students will explore dark matter and dark energy and the possible fate of the Universe. |
GCSE Astronomy explores the universe beyond Earth, linking current space missions and climate awareness to timeless questions about our cosmic origins and potential life elsewhere. Students learn through a blend of thought-provoking theory and hands-on practice: observing the night sky, analysing real astronomical data, and using digital simulations to test ideas. These activities develop sharp analytical, problem-solving and data-handling skills while igniting curiosity and wonder. By uniting scientific rigour with a global perspective, the course equips learners to think critically about our place in the cosmos and inspires pathways into science, engineering and responsible citizenship.
Mr Carradus - Department Leader
The Crossley Heath School
