At All Saints CE Primary School, we endeavour to deliver a high-quality science curriculum which provides our pupils with a secure foundation for understanding the world around them. We develop scientific knowledge and conceptual understanding through the specific disciplines of biology, chemistry and physics. We also value the role of science in nurturing our pupils’ awareness and respect for nature. Through fun, hands-on science enquiries, we promote our pupils’ sense of excitement and inquisitiveness about natural phenomena. We also encourage our pupils to understand, explore and challenge key scientific concepts, including those of renowned scientists as well as their own hypotheses.  Whilst investigating these hypotheses, our pupils are supported to acquire practical scientific skills; using scientific language to communicate and record their findings in a variety of ways.

We aim to provide our children with a deep, lasting interest in science which will prepare them for life in an increasingly scientific and technological world. We use a variety of learning opportunities in science lessons such as exploration, debate and discussion and practical hands-on investigation. Our main aim is to develop children’s scientific skills, knowledge and understanding through challenging, motivating activities that extend the children’s learning. This can be through whole class teaching, small group work, paired work or independent learning.

In KS1 and KS2, we teach the national curriculum for science. The long term plan identifies the science topics to be taught each term to each year group. The medium term plans identify the science objectives for the block of work for that term. Science skills are taught continually and are identified in teachers’ short term planning.

In the Foundation Stage, we teach science through Knowledge of the World (Foundation Stage Curriculum). The emphasis is on practical opportunities, exploring the outdoor environment as well as what can be taught in the classroom. We respond to children’s interests and inquisitiveness throughout the early Years curriculum.

The planning is monitored by the Science subject leader to ensure curriculum coverage and an emphasis on practical exploration and investigation.

We assess and measure impact by:

• Talking to the pupils and asking questions
• Reviewing recorded work and marking against the learning objective
• Observing the pupils carrying out practical tasks
• Pupils self-evaluation of their own work

We monitor the pupils’ progress in skills by carrying out a range of assessments, both formative and summative to inform next steps. We use the Hampshire Progression of Skills Documents for each unit to ensure full coverage.