Science at Yealand Church of England Primary School
Intent: Through high-quality teaching, enquiry-based learning and real-life experiences in our countryside setting and Forest School, we intend for all children to:
- Develop a sense of curiosity and wonder about the natural and physical world.
- Learn through Working Scientifically by thinking and learning like real scientists.
- Develop the skills of observation, questioning, investigation and evaluation.
- Gain secure knowledge and understanding of age-appropriate scientific concepts.
- Learn independently and collaboratively.
- Make meaningful links between scientific learning and real-life situations.
- Use scientific vocabulary accurately and confidently.
- Develop critical and creative thinking skills, resilience, perseverance and a sense of achievement.
- Understand the relevance of science in everyday life and future careers.
Implementation: Science is taught through a progressive curriculum that builds knowledge, skills and understanding over time. At Key Stages 1 and 2, teachers use the National Curriculum for Science (2014) to ensure full coverage of the statutory Programmes of Study and Working Scientifically requirements. In the Early Years Foundation Stage, children develop scientific understanding through the Understanding the World area of learning and progress towards the Early Learning Goals.
Science learning is carefully sequenced within our wider curriculum to ensure that children:
- Build on prior knowledge and experiences.
- Revisit and consolidate key concepts over time.
- Develop increasingly sophisticated scientific understanding and skills.
- Make connections between different areas of learning.
- Teachers use a range of high-quality resources, including STEM Learning and outdoor learning opportunities, to enrich learning and support scientific enquiry.
Through careful planning and preparation, children are provided with opportunities to engage in:
- Practical investigations and hands-on learning.
- Exploration and scientific enquiry.
- Access to a wide range of scientific equipment and resources.
- Questioning and problem-solving activities.
- Independent, paired and collaborative learning.
- Outdoor and environmental science learning.
- Prediction, observation and fair testing.
- Recording, analysing and interpreting results.
- Critical thinking and opportunities to pursue their own lines of enquiry.
- A whole-school Science Week each academic year.
- Educational visits, visitors and enrichment activities linked to science.
- Inclusive Teaching and Learning
Impact The impact of our science curriculum is that children leave Yealand Primary School with:
- A secure understanding of scientific knowledge and concepts appropriate to their age.
- The ability to work scientifically through enquiry and investigation.
- Confidence in asking questions and seeking answers.
- Strong scientific vocabulary and communication skills.
- Curiosity, resilience and enthusiasm for learning.
- An appreciation of the role science plays in everyday life and the wider world.
- The knowledge and skills required for the next stage of their education.
Children demonstrate their learning through discussion, practical investigations, written outcomes and assessment activities. Progress is evident through increasing independence, confidence and depth of understanding.
