“To raise new questions, new possibilities, to regard old problems from a new angle, requires creative imagination and marks real advance in science.” - Albert Einstein

Intent

A high-quality science education provides the foundation for understanding the world and is of fundamental importance in every aspect of daily life. The Science curriculum at St James’ Primary School develops children as scientists through knowledge-rich and inclusive learning sequences.

Our Science curriculum is designed to enhance children’s natural curiosity so that they are eager to learn the subject content as well as develop the necessary investigative skills, fostering a life-long interest in science. Our curriculum provides a meaningful and coherent scientific education, based on the progression of knowledge and skills across the Key Stages. Our pupils acquire secure subject knowledge, develop questioning skills, and communicate their ideas effectively using scientific vocabulary.

Implementation

Science at St James’ Primary School is taught discretely, following a two-year rolling programme in Key Stage 2 and in Key Stage 1. Science is delivered in units, following the guidance from the National Curriculum programmes of study for science. In the Early Years Foundation Stage, teaching follows ‘Understanding the World’, delivering a coherent and progressive Science curriculum from Year R to Year 6.

Each unit includes a strong focus on both scientific knowledge and enquiry skills. Children learn through an investigative and exploratory approach that makes learning memorable. Knowledge organisers provide pupils with an overview of each topic and are used for recall exercises. There is a strong emphasis on discussion to broaden children’s scientific understanding. Scientific vocabulary is explicitly taught and revised throughout each unit. Grammarsaurus is used as a basic unit guide to create bespoke lessons and activities for children, enriched with a range of other resources.