Intent
We recognise the importance of science in every aspect of daily life and we aim to enrich the lives of our pupils by teaching the Science National Curriculum in an informative and practical way. We aim to teach key working scientifically disciplinary skills, substantive knowledge and unit specific vocabulary to raise our pupil’s aspirations, love and enjoyment of science.
Implementation
We teach the National Curriculum objectives for science using the Kapow Science scheme. This ensures that a clear, sequential progression of scientific knowledge and the skills of working scientifically are embedded across units for all year groups. End of unit assessment identifies understanding and where gaps in knowledge may need to be revisited.
Teachers create a positive attitude to science learning within their classrooms and reinforce an expectation that all children are capable of achieving high standards in science. Our whole school approach to the teaching and learning of science involves the following;
- Teachers work collaboratively using subject progression maps and knowledge mapping to coherently sequence and deliver learning journeys designed to allow our pupils to accumulate sufficient knowledge to ensure they are ready for the next stage of their education.
- Starting in EYFS, children are introduced to science through their understanding of the world. Throughout Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2, there is a more formal approach of planning and conducting experiments, research and the use of predictions and conclusions.
- Working Scientifically skills are embedded into lessons to ensure these are being developed throughout the children’s school career, with new vocabulary and challenging concepts being introduced through direct teaching and the use of scientific equipment.
- Teachers will also find opportunities to develop children’s understanding of their surroundings by accessing outdoor learning, Forest School activities and educational visits.
- Castor C of E Primary School runs science, gardening and Forest School clubs, along with a range of STEM activities.
Impact
This approach results in a fun, engaging, high-quality science education that provides children with the foundations and knowledge for understanding the world. Our engagement with the local environment ensures that children learn through varied and first-hand experiences of the world around them. By the time children leave Castor, they will
- Be aware of a range of different professions within the science field
- Be able to work scientifically and have a scientific approach to their work;
- Be able to discuss their science learning with reference and association to science enrichment in the form of trips and workshops;
- Exhibit a love of learning by raising their own questions and hypotheses, leading to pupils leading their own investigations and developing their own knowledge and skills at home.