Science
Intent
At Merriott Primary School we aim to provide a rich and engaging science curriculum which will deepen knowledge, develop skills and show effective progression within the subject for all year groups, promoting lively and enquiring minds. We aim to stimulate children’s interest in this subject and foster a sense of awe and wonder. We will achieve this by providing ‘hands on’ and meaningful experiences which encourage exploration, discovery and investigation throughout the year including a dedicated science week annually and an extensive gardening program which runs throughout the year.
As in all topics, the teaching builds on prior learning and allows for revisiting of topics but at a greater depth, thus enabling a clear progression of knowledge and understanding over their primary education.
Alongside these topics and embedded within our planning we recognise the importance of working scientifically and the progression that is needed to nurture confident, accurate and careful scientists who have a wide knowledge of the local and global environment.
Implementation
Our science curriculum is guided and overseen by the science curriculum leader, who regularly monitors, evaluates and reviews the learning and teaching through book reviews and learning walks.
The National Curriculum and Early Years Foundation stage statutory frameworks provide the basis for our curriculum and we use the PLAN assessment resources to ensure progression and coverage in all topics. These documents also help us to monitor a rich curriculum and plan for further opportunities for revisiting should they be needed.
Our science curriculum is based on a two-year cycle which is developed and monitored to ensure the needs of mixed aged classes are met in an exciting and interesting format. Furthermore, with our yearly science weeks and gardening programs, we ensure broad and deep knowledge acquisition and application.
Impact
Our approach results in a fun and engaging science education with regular opportunities to engage in science in the outdoor environment.
Children are enthusiastic and motivated learners and become resilient, independent and curious scientists. They leave us with an awareness of the scientific careers and pathways available to them and equipped with the prior knowledge needed to succeed in their future scientific education journey.
Merriott Primary School Science Overview