This article describes how science can lead whole-school curriculum change at key stage 3 (ages 11-14). Two thematic curriculum models are described. Model 1 shows how science specialists can develop student understanding of how science interrelates to a variety of other subject areas, while Model 2 shows how science might help to create a 'learning community' of subject specialists through concept mapping across subject areas. Both models encourage collaborative approaches to curriculum design and ultimately learning, with a major emphasis being placed on science, its relationship with other curriculum areas and its importance in our society.