Science

Intention (Why do we teach what we teach?)

Our Science Curriculum is based on the 2014 National Curriculum programmes of study supported by Cornerstones and aims to ensure that all children:

• Develop scientific knowledge and conceptual understanding through the specific disciplines of biology, chemistry and physics.
• Develop an understanding of the nature, processes and methods of science through different types of science enquiries that help them to answer scientific questions about the world around them.
• Are equipped with the scientific skills required to understand the uses and implications of science, today and for the future.

We understand that it is important for lessons to have a skills-based focus, and that the knowledge can be taught through this at Stoke St Michael Primary School, we understand that children have a natural inquisitiveness. Using Cornerstones as a platform, it is shaped to ensure it is fully inclusive to every child regardless of their learning needs. Science fosters this curiosity of the universe, an understanding of the world around us and a respect for both living and non-living things. We believe that a broad and balanced science curriculum must comprise of several aspects; knowledge, conceptual understanding, skills and a positive attitude towards the subject. The programmes of study in the National Curriculum science document promote a deep understanding of knowledge and concepts that are built upon through Primary School. We have strengthened knowledge of the Science Curriculum at our school – using Cornerstones as a platform – to show what is taught and where regarding the teaching of science.

Implementation (How do we teach it?)

Fundamental to the implementation of our science curriculum is an insistence of high standards of learning, supported by enthusiastic and highly skilled staff.

Our whole school approach to science involves the following:

Early Year Foundation Stage science is linked to the Specific Area of ‘Understanding the World’. Our outside areas which are in the development stage will play a large role in this, allowing pupils the opportunity to observe animals and plants and understand the differences between living things.

At Stoke St Michael, a long-term plan, with carefully constructed units of work covering the full range of skills, is in place in order to achieve this. Medium term plans, created by Cornerstones, ensure coverage of both the required knowledge and the subject specific skills. Individual sessions are planned to inspire, engage and challenge pupils in response to their needs. Children are given a wide variety of experiences both in the classroom and out. We encourage school visits and visitors into school to enable the children to gain first-hand experiences such as “Science Days” to support and supplement their learning.

Impact (What has been the impact and how do we know?)

The successful approach at Stoke St Michael results in a high quality, challenging and engaging science curriculum, that provides children with the foundations for understanding the world. Through trips, outside visitors and hands on learning, pupils understand the real-world context for science and the applications of accurate scientific investigation skills. Children understand the contribution that scientists have made through the ages, drawing on cross-curricular skills to appreciate the contributions made by those before them. Children at Stoke St Michael overwhelmingly enjoy science and this results in them being motivated learners.