Science

INTENT

Our intent for Science is to:

  • Foster curiosity
  • Develop investigative skills
  • Cultivate a deep understanding of scientific concepts.

We aim to instill a passion for the subject, broaden pupils’ scientific knowledge, and facilitate their progression. To achieve this, we have designed a curriculum that is progressive, engaging, and inclusive, catering to the diverse needs and abilities of all pupils.

IMPLEMENTATION

Our Science curriculum is carefully sequenced to ensure a logical progression of knowledge and skills across the key stages.  It is compliant with the National Curriculum requirements, providing a broad and balanced coverage of scientific disciplines.  We have identified clear learning outcomes for each unit, which are linked to age-appropriate scientific concepts and skills.

Practical work is at the heart of our Science curriculum, allowing pupils to develop their investigative skills and deepen their understanding.  We provide regular opportunities for hands-on experiments, investigations, and observations, enabling pupils to develop hypotheses, plan procedures, and draw conclusions.  Science lessons incorporate a range of practical resources, including equipment, models, ICT, and visits to various scientific institutions.

We actively promote cross-curricular links with subjects such as Mathematics, English, and Design & Technology to enhance pupils’ comprehension and application of scientific concepts.  This approach not only reinforces scientific knowledge but also helps pupils appreciate the wider relevance and impact of Science in their everyday lives.

Our assessment strategies in Science are formative, summative, and diagnostic in nature.  We utilize a variety of assessment tools, including written tasks, practical assessments, presentations, and quizzes, to gauge pupils’ scientific knowledge, understanding, and skills.  Frequent feedback, both written and verbal, is provided to pupils, highlighting their strengths and areas for development. This feedback informs future planning and supports pupil progress.

IMPACT

By the end of KS2, pupils are equipped with a sound knowledge base, enabling them to apply scientific concepts confidently across a range of contexts.  Pupil progress is monitored closely, and interventions are put in place to address any gaps in understanding and accelerate learning.

Our engaging and hands-on approach to Science fosters a love for the subject, resulting in high levels of pupil engagement and enjoyment.  Pupils actively participate in lessons, demonstrating interest, excitement, and curiosity towards scientific phenomena.  Enthusiasm for Science extends beyond the classroom, as evidenced by pupils’ involvement in science clubs, competitions, and STEM-related activities.

Our aim is for pupils to:

  • Develop a wide range of scientific skills, including questioning, critical thinking, problem-solving, observation, and analysis.
  • Become confident in planning and conducting investigations, recording and interpreting data, and drawing evidence-based conclusions.
  • Develop a deep understanding of the scientific method and are capable of evaluating the reliability of scientific information.

Science Skills & Knowledge Progression

Working Scientifically Skills & Knowledge Progression