Science Curriculum Design

Our science curriculum aims to develop a sense of awe and wonder, as each child is encouraged to explore their curiosity about natural and scientific phenomena. Our children are supported to develop a deep understanding of the specific disciplines of science and continue to build on their substantive knowledge and concepts as they work scientifically, developing their disciplinary knowledge.

Our curriculum aims to facilitate contextual learning to ensure understanding and create meaning for our children. Our children are exposed to real life experiences which allow them to appreciate how science has impacted the world we live in and how essential science is for our world. Our curriculum puts an emphasis on practical learning, using the outdoors as a resource wherever possible. The children are given choice and encouragement to develop their own lines of enquiry and questioning, allowing further exploration and development of scientific knowledge. Children are given opportunities to work both independently and in teams. Teamwork is encouraged to allow our children to lead and support each other, explore together and to challenge each other’s ideas. This not only allows the children to answer scientific questions using rational explanations but gives our children the confidence and self-belief to challenge and ask scientific questions of their own.

Children's knowledge is assessed at the start of each unit in order to see if knowledge has been embedded in previous year groups.  This will ensure lessons are sequenced and knowledge is built upon.  A variety of teaching strategies (including growth mindset strategies) are used in lessons to regularly check the children's knowledge. Adaptations are made to suit children of all abilities and support is given where possible.

Scientific Enquiry

At St Peter's, we ensure that children are involved in setting up and planning enquiries to answer their own questions. We use the following 5 different types of enquiry so that the children understand that questions can be answered in different ways.

Enrichment