Science
The National Curriculum for Science aims to ensure that all pupils:
- 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 knowledge required to understand the uses and implications of science, today and for the future
Intent
At Helmsley Community Primary School, our vision is to nurture children’s natural curiosity so that they confidently ask questions and develop a deeper understanding of the world we live in. Through a practical, enquiry based curriculum, children will experience the joy of exploration and investigation. We believe that through these experiences, the children will understand the relevance of science to their lives now and in the future.
All teachers have a good knowledge and understanding of the subject and plan lessons in line with National Curriculum objectives. Teachers also use cross curricular, inspirational ideas to involve children in their learning and provide memorable experiences which stimulate children’s creativity.
- To follow the progression of the National Curriculum for Science and the EYFS Knowledge and Understanding of the World.
- To nurture curiosity in finding out why things happen in the way they do.
- Give children a strong understanding of the world around them.
- Encourage a respect for all living things and the environment.
- To develop the essential scientific enquiry skills to deepen their scientific knowledge.
- To develop a respect for the materials and equipment they handle with regard for their own and other children’s safety.
- To support children to understand the uses and implications of Science, today and in the future.
- To teach methods of enquiry and investigation that stimulate creative thought and develop pupils’ enjoyment and skills.
- To nurture independence and encourage children to ask questions about the world they live in.
- Ensure that any gaps in learning, as a result of COVID, are closed and pupils meet age related expectations in Science.
Implementation
- In EYFS we implement Science through scientific based provision areas such as floating and sinking.
- Science is taught for one afternoon a week.
- Working walls reflect what is being taught, vocabulary and relevant diagrams and photographs are displayed clearly.
- Books are of a high quality and show a range of evidence.
- The Ryedale Learning Trust vocabulary bookmarks and knowledge organisers are found at the beginning of each new topic.
- Excellent teacher knowledge and a variety of knowledge retrieval tasks are used.
- Children reflect on previous learning, build on prior knowledge and link ideas together, enabling them to question and learn through enquiry.
- Working scientifically skills are use throughout the Science units.
- Knowledge, skills and vocabulary is sequenced for progression and depth
- Assessment trackers are used to monitor attainment.
- All our children access our forest learning environment for plants and animal based topics.
- Trips and visits from experts are provided to enhance the scientific learning experience.
- Additional support is in place for SEND pupils to enable them to access the curriculum at the appropriate level.
