Intent

In our rapidly evolving world science is a vital part of our curriculum intention.  Science stimulates and excites children’s curiosity about phenomena and events in the world around them.  It also satisfies their curiosity with knowledge; because science links direct practical experience with ideas, it can engage learners at many levels.  Scientific method is about developing and evaluating explanations through experimental evidence and modelling.  We strive to promote the love of learning science and for children to understand and be curious about the science within their everyday lives. 

It is our responsibility to ensure that our science curriculum not only meets the statutory requirements of the National Curriculum but also inspires and nurtures a lifelong curiosity in our children.  To achieve this, we have adopted the White Rose Science Scheme of Learning, which is integral to delivering high-quality science education across our school.

The primary intent of our science curriculum, through the White Rose Science Scheme of Learning, is to:

• Foster Deep Scientific Understanding: We are committed to developing a robust understanding of key scientific concepts in our children.  Our curriculum is carefully sequenced to build knowledge progressively, ensuring that each child has a solid foundation on which to build future learning.
• Encourage Inquiry and Exploration: We aim to cultivate a spirit of inquiry in our children.  By encouraging them to ask questions, explore ideas, and conduct investigations, we nurture a scientific mindset that values evidence and critical thinking.
• Embed Core Knowledge and Skills: Our curriculum is designed to ensure that children acquire essential scientific knowledge and skills.  This includes not only understanding key concepts but also mastering scientific methods and being able to apply their learning in a variety of contexts.
• Promote Cross-Curricular Connections: Science does not exist in isolation, and our scheme of learning integrates science with other subjects such as mathematics and literacy.  This approach helps children see the relevance of science in everyday life and across different disciplines.

Implementation

To ensure that our intent translates into effective teaching and learning, we have implemented the White Rose Science Scheme as follow:

• Structured Curriculum Planning: The scheme provides a coherent sequence of lessons, ensuring continuity and progression from year to year.  Each topic builds on prior knowledge, allowing children to deepen their understanding as they move through the school.
• Support for Teachers: The scheme includes comprehensive resources and detailed lesson plans, enabling our teachers to deliver high-quality science lessons with confidence.  Differentiation is embedded in the plans, ensuring that all children, regardless of ability, can access the curriculum and succeed.
• Hands-On Learning: Practical investigations are at the heart of our science curriculum.  We believe that children learn best by doing, and the scheme emphasises hands-on experiments and activities that make abstract concepts tangible and engaging.
• Assessment for Learning: We use a range of assessment strategies to monitor children's progress and inform teaching.  This includes both formative and summative assessments, as well as regular opportunities for self and peer assessment.

Impact

The impact of our science curriculum, as delivered through the White Rose Scheme, is evident in several key areas:

• Scientific Literacy: Our children develop a strong understanding of scientific concepts and methods, equipping them with the knowledge they need to excel in their future education.
• Critical Thinking: Through enquiry based learning and hands-on investigations, our children enhance their critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which are essential for success in science and beyond.
• Engagement and Motivation: The practical, exploratory nature of our science lessons keep children engaged and excited about learning.  This enthusiasm for science is something we strive to nurture and sustain throughout their time with us.
• Cross-Curricular Learning: By integrating science with other subjects, we provide a more holistic educational experience that helps children make connections across different areas of learning.

Assessment of learning

Effective assessment is key to ensuring that our children are making progress and achieving the learning objectives set out in our curriculum.  To this end:

• Formative Assessment: We use ongoing formative assessment to gauge children's understanding during lessons.  This includes questioning, class discussions, and observations, which help teachers tailor their instruction to meet the needs of each child.
• Summative Assessment: At the end of each topic, children are assessed through quizzes, tests, or projects that measure their grasp of the material.  These assessments are designed to align with the objectives of the White Rose Science Scheme, providing a clear picture of each child's progress.
• Practical Skills Assessment: We place a strong emphasis on assessing children's practical skills.  This includes their ability to plan and conduct experiments, analyse data, and draw conclusions.  Practical assessments are integral to our understanding of how well children are applying their scientific knowledge.
• Self and Peer Assessment: We encourage children to take ownership of their learning through self and peer assessments.  This reflective practice helps children develop a deeper understanding of their strengths and areas for improvement.

Through these comprehensive assessment strategies, we ensure that all children are progressing towards their full potential in science, and that we are providing the necessary support and challenge to help them succeed.