Science

INTENT

It is our intention to recognise the importance of Science in every aspect of daily life. Our curriculum in Science gives children a strong understanding of the diverse world around them, developing their natural curiosity to build confidence and a strong sense of independence.  We intend for children to acquire specific scientific skills, knowledge and vocabulary to help them think and work scientifically and become enquiry based learners.

IMPLEMENTATION

Children are taught to  use a range of scientific enquiry types: comparative and fair testing; identifying , classifying and grouping; pattern seeking; research using secondary sources and observing over time.  For example in Early Years, children observe and interact with natural processes such as ice melting. In Year 3 children explore the requirements for plants to grow by comparing how they grow under different conditions. In Year 6 children describe how living things are classified into broad groups according to observable characteristics. We implement our Science curriculum through a clear overview and progression in skills from foundation stage to year 6.

Our Science curriculum celebrates diversity through the study of a variety of scientists. For example, children in Year 3 learn about Mary Anning and her work in palaeontology. This is supported by our class names which have been chosen to celebrate diversity; these include the British astronaut Helen Sharman, the physicist Stephen Hawking and the biologist David Attenborough.  In addition, a range of historical scientific figures are studied throughout the school as part of the History curriculum. For example, Neil Armstrong (Year 1) and Florence Nightingale (Year 2). These cross curricular links continue throughout the school. In the early years children learn about animals around the world and identify the differences between habitats in Kenya and those in the United Kingdom. In  Year 3, children are taught about volcanoes and earthquakes in Geography alongside rocks and soils in Science.

An investigative approach underpins our learning and teaching in Science. Learning is brought to life through school trips and learning experiences. All year groups explore our Forest School area where learning is linked to Science topics such as Plants, Living Things and their Habitats and Rocks and Soils. Children in the early years visit Woburn Safari Park to deepen their understanding of animals around the world and also observe ducklings hatching in their classroom. In Year 2 children visit Whipsnade Zoo as part of their Living Things and their Habitats topic. In Year 6 children apply their knowledge of electricity and incorporate motors into their DT project.

IMPACT 

Through our teaching and learning in Science we challenge, we inspire and we ensure children achieve: 

• Learners demonstrate a love of science work and an interest in further study and work in this field. 

• Learners retain knowledge that is pertinent to Science with a real-life context.

• Learners develop the ability to question ideas and reflect on knowledge.

• Learners articulate their understanding of scientific concepts and reason scientifically using rich language linked to science. 

• Learners work collaboratively and practically to investigate and experiment.

• Learners make year on year progress in their science learning.