Intent

In line with the 2014 National Curriculum our aim is to provide a high quality education that equips children with the relevant skills to explore the science that is all around us. At Trinity St Mary’s Primary School, we believe that scientific investigation is one of the most powerful ways to learn; developing curiosity and perseverance as well as challenging what we know about the world. We aim to make science as practical as possible, linking it to real life contexts and giving a meaning to our learning.

Implementation

Our science lessons are fun and engaging and provide the children with lots of hands on experience. We make use of all of our facilities when teaching and do not limit science to the classroom. We have lessons on the field and in the playground. We even have strong links with William De Ferrers and the children participate in various workshops and lessons there throughout the year, such as the recent Year 5 participation in the Techno Games. Our lessons aim to develop the key skills of investigation, problem solving and team work; empowering children to question the world around them and become scientific thinkers.

We have started using Developing Experts, an interactive science platform. The online resources includes input from experts at universities and in industry, showing children how the skills they are learning about can link into their future role in society. Frequent knowledge checks and end of unit assessments support teachers in identifying gaps in learning and tailor additional teaching and support as necessary. Within lessons we are also having a specific scientific skill focus such as experimenting, prediction, setting up tests, interpreting results and many more! 

In addition to following units of work designed to inspire and promote a love of science, we have entered national competitions such as the Logo Lift Off, and run themed "STEM" days. Recently, Years 3, 4 and 5 participated in a STEM workshop supported by 'Wonderstruck' and made compressed air rockets, rocket cars and fan-powered cars. We also worked as a school on a gardening project to improve our outdoor area during Wellbeing Week, and have been successful in winning a Local School Nature Grant which we will be using to improve our school environment and further develop the children's love of nature. We look forward to celebrating more successes in science this year.

Impact

The impact of our curriculum can be seen by the enthusiasm within our children. We have a progressive curriculum that enables  the children to question and challenge ideas. They look forward to learning and celebrating their achievements. Children are enthused by the knowledge and skills they gain and regularly voluntarily produce presentations and projects at home. An example of this related to the consequences of plastic pollution which led to some children writing to their local Member of Parliament. Our curriculum is fully inclusive and all children are able to access the curriculum through differentiation and with relevant support.