Science
Intent
At Apsol, we believe that science provides children with the knowledge, skills and understanding they need to make sense of the world around them. Our science curriculum is designed to inspire curiosity, awe and wonder. It encourages pupils to ask questions, explore ideas and develop a lifelong interest in science.
We aim to ensure that all children:
· Develop secure scientific knowledge and understanding across biology, chemistry and physics.
· Explore and investigate the world around them through practical, hands-on experiences.
· Become confident, independent learners who can think critically and solve problems.
· Build scientific vocabulary and communicate their ideas effectively.
· Understand the relevance of science in everyday life and its role in shaping the future.
· Appreciate the contributions of scientists from a diverse range of backgrounds.
· Develop respect for the natural world and an understanding of how science can help us care for our environment.
Our science curriculum is ambitious, inclusive and progressive, ensuring that every child develops the knowledge and skills needed for the next stage of their education. Our commitment to excellence in science is recognised through our PSQM award, reflecting our dedication to providing high-quality science education for all pupils.
Implementation
Science is taught through a carefully sequenced curriculum that builds knowledge and skills progressively from Early Years through to Year 6. We follow the White Rose Science Scheme, using its high-quality resources and planning to support consistency, progression and effective teaching and learning across the school. These plans and teaching resources are adapted where necessary to meet the needs and interests of the children.
Our curriculum is organised to:
· Deliver the National Curriculum objectives through clearly structured units of learning.
· Ensure knowledge is revisited and built upon over time, enabling children to make connections between concepts and retain learning.
· Develop both substantive knowledge (scientific facts, concepts and vocabulary) and disciplinary knowledge (working scientifically skills).
· Provide regular opportunities for children to ask questions, make predictions, observe, test, investigate, record results and draw conclusions.
· Encourage enquiry-based learning through a range of scientific investigations, including observing over time, comparative and fair testing, pattern seeking, identifying and classifying, and researching using secondary sources.
· Promote the use of scientific language and vocabulary across all year groups.
· Offer practical and engaging learning experiences that develop curiosity and enthusiasm for science.
· Assess learning through ongoing formative assessment and planned opportunities to review and extend understanding.
Teachers use high-quality questioning, discussion and practical activities to deepen understanding and challenge thinking. Science learning is enriched through investigations, outdoor learning opportunities, links with STEM, and experiences that enable children to see science in action beyond the classroom.
Impact
The impact of our science curriculum is demonstrated through children who are enthusiastic, curious and confident scientists. They leave our school with a secure understanding of key scientific concepts and the ability to apply their knowledge to new situations.
As a result of our science provision:
· Children make strong progress in scientific knowledge and skills from their starting points.
· Pupils can recall and apply scientific knowledge with increasing confidence and accuracy.
· Children use scientific vocabulary effectively to explain, justify and discuss their thinking.
· Pupils demonstrate the ability to work scientifically by asking questions, planning investigations, analysing results and drawing evidence-based conclusions.
· Children show curiosity about the world around them and understand how science relates to everyday life.
· Learners are prepared for the next stage of their science education and equipped with the skills needed for future learning.
· A positive culture of scientific enquiry is evident throughout the school, reflecting our commitment to excellence recognised through the Primary Science Quality Mark (PSQM).
Ultimately, our pupils leave school with a sense of wonder about the world, a secure foundation of scientific knowledge and the confidence to continue exploring, questioning and learning throughout their lives.
