Science
Statement of intent for the Science curriculum
Science is an integral core subject, it enables children to access the wider world around them. The National Curriculum provides the structure and skill development for the science curriculum for Key Stages 1 and 2 and Development Matters in the Early Years Foundation Stage (The world). We ensure that the working scientifically skills are built-on and developed, guided by using and adapting activities recommended by the Association for Science Education (ASE).
The Science curriculum is taught in a logical sequence where pupils' knowledge, skills and vocabulary are built upon year on year, ensuring progression towards EYFS, KS1 and KS2 end points. The curriculum ensures that pupils are ready for their next stage of learning, equipped with an interest in Science. Where concepts are not repeated, opportunities for aspects of scientific knowledge and conceptual understanding to be revisited are taken, for instance sound. Prior learning is revisited to ensure pupils' understanding is retained and becomes embedded in their long-term memory. Connections with other subjects are identified and links explicitly made within lessons.
Pupils' natural curiosity is actively encouraged and nurtured through skilful questioning, enquiry and investigation. Investigations are primarily child initiated to encourage a problem solving, resilient mind-set and promote independent learning. Resources are adapted, when necessary, to ensure SEND and disadvantaged pupils can access all aspects of the same curriculum. Lack of real life experiences and vocabulary deficit is taken into account and addressed, enabling all pupils to be fully engaged in Science lessons so progression can be made. Lessons include opportunities for age appropriate reading, for example, through research of secondary sources and current news articles and by making use of the field and local amenities. Links to other subjects are actively sought and promoted. Throughout the curriculum, children are exposed to a range of scientists - modern, historical, male, female and from different cultural backgrounds and they learn the 'real life' impact of scientific theory and discovery on our World.