Curriculum

Science

” Science should inspire a sense of excitement and curiosity in children so that they ask questions that fuel explorations and investigations about the universe we live in.”

Mrs Mann (Science Lead)

Intent

The Bible shows us that the world was created specially and we, ourselves, are part of it. Science plays a vital role within our curriculum ensuring that children have a varied and well-mapped-out programme of learning.

We intend for our children to have the opportunity to learn through varied systematic investigations building on their skills of working scientifically, as well as their scientific knowledge. We aspire for our pupils to become successful, confident scientists and to enjoy the process of exploring values and ideas through science.

 

Implementation

Linked knowledge organisers and retrieval practices enable children to learn and retain the important, useful, and powerful vocabulary and knowledge contained within each unit. Each lesson has a clear focus. Subject matter is presented clearly with scientific knowledge and enquiry skills developing with increasing depth and challenge as children move through the year groups. Pupils’ complete investigations and hands-on activities while gaining the scientific knowledge required to progress year on year. The sequence of lessons helps to embed scientific knowledge and skills, with each lesson building on previous learning. There is also the opportunity to regularly review, evaluate and recap understanding. Activities are effectively differentiated so that all children have an appropriate level of support and challenge.

Teachers check for learning throughout the lessons using key assessment questions interwoven into the teaching sequence. They identify misconceptions and provide direct feedback. Teaching is designed to ensure children know more and remember more.

Teachers are equipped with secure scientific subject knowledge, enabling them to deliver high-quality teaching and learning opportunities whilst making them aware of possible scientific misconceptions.

As a school, we take every opportunity to enhance learning in science through different avenues such as forest school, workshops, trips, and interactions with experts. Children explore their outdoor environment and locality, developing their scientific enquiry and investigative skills. They build upon their understanding that science has changed our lives and learn about the possibilities of careers in science that are vital to the world’s future prosperity.

 

Impact

The successful approach to science provides children with the foundations for understanding the world around them. By the time they leave us, all pupils have a coherent knowledge and understanding of the three science disciplines: biology, chemistry, and physics. This knowledge, alongside scientific skills, enables them to ask questions, think critically, weigh evidence and draw relevant conclusions. Pupils feel confident in their science knowledge and enquiry skills.

Leaders monitor the quality and impact of the science curriculum through lesson observations and regular pupil voice to ascertain the extent to which pupils know more and remember more.

The impact and measure of this is seen in our pupils who are equipped with the skills and knowledge they need to enable them to be ready for the Key Stage 3 curriculum and for life as an adult in the wider world.