Science

Welcome to the Science Department

Staff Members

Mrs R Honeyman

Associate Assistant Headteacher and Curriculum Leader for Science

I started my teaching career in 2005 at Penwortham Priory Academy after studying BSc (Hons) in Biomedical Sciences at Nottingham University for 4 years. I thoroughly enjoyed studying about genetics and immunology and my favourite book is “The Selfish Gene” by Richard Dawkins. I did a lot of work at Priory into getting girls into engineering and STEM subjects and I am excited to bring my experience here and open your eyes to a mass of career opportunities. I believe Science should be about exploring the world beyond the national curriculum and want you to become the next generation of scientists. I want you all to have the necessary skills to operate fully as a scientist and develop a innate passion to always ask why.
I love reading the BBC Focus magazine (you must try it) but aside from Science I love crafts, cooking and watching reality TV shows like Masterchef and grand designs as well as spending days out at national trust sites with my little boy William.

Mr C Coogan

Assistant Curriculum Leader for Science

I have had a passion for science since secondary school, sparked by a particularly inspirational teacher. This led me to choosing the sciences at A-level and then studying for a BSc (Hons) in Chemistry at the University of Manchester, specialising in organic chemistry and graduating in 2010. Following university, I started working in the oil and gas industry as a geochemist. This gave me the opportunity to work across Europe and North America as well as gaining an appreciation of how a wide array of scientific disciplines are applied in industry.

In 2016, having spoken to numerous science teachers, I chose to move into teaching and completed my PGCE in 2017. The chance to inspire young people and help them get into STEM careers is an incredible opportunity. I’m looking forward to opening pupils’ eyes to the huge range of options that can open up for them as they progress through their scientific education.

During my spare time, I enjoy running (occasionally), fishing and fell walking in the Lake District.

Miss L Avery

After completing a degree in Dietetics and working for the NHS for a number of year in many roles, I undertook a PGCE to become a teacher in 2016. I was lucky enough train at PGHS and then was employed as a teacher. Whilst my own children are also studying for their GCSEs and A’ Levels (in science of course !), I made the decision to become a teaching assistant so I could support them fully at home. I was so pleased to be able to carry on in the science department as a Teaching Assistant here at PGHS. This is by far my favorite job, combining my love of science with teaching and learning of our future scientists.

Out of school I love walking and the outdoors so I am a scout leader and I walk miles with my dog, Lola.

Mrs R Cahill

In 2004 I started teaching Science, initially at St Mary’s college in Crosby, followed by Greenbank High in Southport. I completed my BSc (Hons) in Biological Sciences at Plymouth university and have a real passion for the subject, especially human physiology. I enjoy involving pupils in dissection and hearing about their experience as they share their findings. Many of my past pupils have gone on to study A‘level Biology, then a Biology related degree course, including medicine and dentistry. I generally enjoy all practical aspects of Science and feel it helps further pupils understanding. I ran a successful science club which involved many cool experiments, Eco club, animal care and the completion of the Crest award scheme. We also regularly visited the annual Big Bang Science Fair. I also established links with the Royal Society, Society of Biology and the Galton Institute. My aim is to continue stimulating a practical interest in Science and I look forward to developing the scientist in our pupils. Outside of school I love to be outdoors, whether its camping, walking, cycling or gardening.

Mr P Dean

Hello! My name is Mr Dean. My passion in life has always been Science. Before getting into teaching, I was a sous chef for 13 years. I loved experimenting with gastronomy, using my knowledge of physics and chemistry to transform the tastes and textures of everyday food. I worked in several local restaurants as well as restaurants in London. One of my favourite parts of the job was teaching trainee chefs the basics in kitchen craft, allowing them to go on to further their careers; some even made it to Michelin Star establishments. Outside of teaching, I am an avid rugby fan, following the mighty Wigan Warriors. I am also a keen angler and like to get my fishing rods out whenever possible.

Miss G Forrest

Hello, my name is Miss Forrest! My aspirations of becoming a teacher mainly stem from my love of learning. The thought of being able to teach young people who are as excited about science as I am drives my need to fulfil this dream. I studied a Masters degree in Chemistry at The University of Central Lancashire before starting my PGCE in Secondary Science. Whilst completing my PGCE I was lucky enough to carry out my second placement at Penwortham Girls’ High School which led to me becoming a member of the science team here at PGHS. Outside of school, one of my favourite things to do is go to the theatre as I am a massive fan of musicals. I also really love travelling with my family, two of my favourite places I have been to are Las Vegas and Barbados.

Mrs H Goodwill

Throughout school and college, Science was always of interest to me and this led me to study Pharmacology at Leeds University. After finishing my degree I gained further scientific experience by studying for an MSc in Neuroscience at Manchester University and on completion of this, I worked for Professor Nancy Rothwell (PGHS alumni). Through these positions I trained and taught technicians and PhD students and this led me to pursue a career in teaching which would also fit in with my family life. I took up my first teaching post in Burnley in 2006 and joined Penwortham Girls’ in 2013. I love teaching Science and Chemistry and I want the girls to realise their potential and develop skills that they can use in any career.
My main interest outside of school is athletics. I compete and officiate in local leagues and I am also a coach at Burnley Athletic Club.

Mr D Knee

After gaining a BSc Hons degree in Environmental Biology, I began my teaching career in 2001 as a ‘Teacher of Biology’ at St Francis Xavier’s College in Liverpool. During the last 17 years I have delivered Science at Key Stage 3 and GCSE level, alongside GCSE and A-Level Biology.

From a young age I have always been in awe of the natural world. My keen interest in angling helped to develop my fascination with ecosystems and natural cycles, leading to my choice of an ecology based degree course.

Outside of classroom I have a love for outdoor pursuits, particularly fishing and golf. I have recently acquired a telescope and I am enjoying learning the basics of astronomy.

During my time studying and teaching Science, I have become acutely aware of how statistics and mathematics underpin the validity of the scientific process and I look forward to delivering a Science curriculum at Penwortham Girls’ High School which will hopefully inspire the next generation of girls to follow in the footsteps of Ada Lovelace and Rosalind Franklin.

Ms R Goodwin

Technician

Curriculum Information

  • Artsmark Platinum Award - Awards by Arts Council England
  • Lancashire Socio-economic Equality Badge
  • SMART
  • UNICEF
  • School Mental Health Award
  • Ofsted - Outstanding Provider
  • International School Award
  • Artsmark Platinum Award - Awards by Arts Council England
  • Lancashire Socio-economic Equality Badge
  • SMART
  • UNICEF
  • School Mental Health Award
  • Ofsted - Outstanding Provider
  • International School Award