Gamston St Peter's CofE Primary School Science Curriculum

At Gamston St Peter's CofE Primary School, our science curriculum is designed to enrich pupils' knowledge and understanding of the world around them while fostering essential skills associated with scientific inquiry.

Curriculum Overview

A high-quality science education provides the foundation for understanding the world through the disciplines of biology, chemistry, and physics. We encourage our pupils to embrace their curiosity, recognise the power of reasoned explanation, and develop excitement about natural phenomena. Our curriculum empowers pupils to:

• Develop Scientific Knowledge: Gain a solid understanding of key concepts across biology, chemistry, and physics.

• Engage in Scientific Inquiry: Explore the nature, processes, and methods of science through various types of scientific investigations, enabling them to answer questions about the world.

• Understand Science's Relevance: Equip pupils with the knowledge to comprehend the implications of science in today's world and its future applications.

Intent

We recognise the vital role of science in everyday life and prioritise its teaching as a core subject. Our goals include:

• Inspiring Curiosity: Provide opportunities for pupils to explore and investigate scientific phenomena across diverse contexts.

• Building Knowledge and Skills: Develop a curriculum that fosters continuous learning, enabling pupils to become informed global citizens.

• Promoting Critical Thinking: Encourage pupils to ask questions, experiment, reflect, and learn from mistakes in a safe environment.

By the end of their time at Gamston St Peter's CofE Primary School, pupils will possess a comprehensive understanding of scientific concepts, enabling them to know more, remember more, and understand more.

Implementation

Our science curriculum adheres to the National Curriculum's dual focus on developing scientific knowledge and skills. Key elements include:

• Interactive Learning: Science lessons are delivered through a variety of engaging methods, including practical activities that promote discussion and deeper understanding.

• Outdoor Learning: Whenever possible, lessons extend beyond the classroom to utilise our school's outdoor spaces for experiential learning.

• Knowledge Organisers: We employ knowledge organisers and vocabulary displays to reinforce key concepts and terminology, ensuring that learning is retained and shared with families.

• Structured Progression: Our medium-term planning reflects a clear progression of content, knowledge, and skills, ensuring that pupils build on their learning year after year.

• Embedded Scientific Practises: We integrate scientific inquiry skills—such as observing, pattern seeking, and comparative testing—into lessons to cultivate a comprehensive understanding of scientific methods.

Wider Curriculum Integration

Science learning is further enriched through cultural activities, events like National Science Week, and guest speakers who connect scientific concepts to real-world applications relevant to our pupils' lives.

Impact

By the time pupils graduate from Gamston St Peter's CofE Primary School, they will have acquired age-appropriate knowledge and skills aligned with the science curriculum. They will:

• Communicate Effectively: Use scientific vocabulary fluently in both verbal and written forms.

• Pursue Curiosity: Engage in scientific inquiries with confidence and curiosity.

• Recognise Scientific Relevance: Understand the transformative impact of science on society and be aware of potential career paths in scientific fields.

Through a variety of enriching experiences, including well-structured science lessons and interactive workshops, our pupils will be equipped with the scientific knowledge necessary to navigate the complexities of the modern world.