Science

Science is taught with the intention of children developing sound knowledge and curiosity of:

• The natural world, in particular what exists around the school community, and in books read to them (Early Years and Year 1).
• Observing and experiencing the natural world and human- made world around them, themselves and animals (Year 1 and Year 2).
• Exploring, discussion, testing out ideas and making conclusions about the natural and human-made world, and environments familiar to them (Year 3, Year 4 and Year 5 and Year 6).
• Functions, relationships and interactions and how they will investigate their ideas (Year 5 and Year 6).

Justification for our science curriculum:

Whilst every child is born with a curiosity for the way the world works around them, the profile of science for many of our pupils remains to be limited. We seek to create first-hand practical experiences for children to create a platform for discussion, experience and developing scientific curiosity, thinking and skills. Planning originates from Primary Science Teaching Trust and the Ogden Trust and is adapted by teachers.

In Early Years and Key Stage One, children are given opportunities to observe, make, create, investigate, and classify often discreetly around books that form part of our class reading. We are considerate to children’s needs as we develop children’s understanding of phenomena. This enables children to maintain their curiosity for science.

In Key Stage Two, children’s thinking and skills are deepened, especially once trust is established for more abstract phenomena. This comes from children having more experiences of the world, which enables children to create greater logic, resilience, understanding of taking calculated risks and ultimately becoming more independent.

How can I support my child’s learning in Science?

Science is far more exciting, memorable and fun when experienced in person!

Young children thrive from a greater understanding of the world around them. Talking about, observing and investigating the world together is really beneficial because it will start to develop your child’s logic and problem solving skills. For example, letting your child jump in puddles will allow your child to understand that doing so they get wet and dirty, and that is why they need to wear wellies when jumping in puddles. These experiences are just as important for children in Early Years as in Year 6, when children can become more independent with cooking and laundry skills.

Local Museums and Days Out to support learning:

• King George’s Park
• Stamford Park
• Daisy Nook Country Park
• Hartshead Pike
• Lancaster Farm, Cockfields Farm and Reddish Vale Farm
• Alexandra Park, Oldham
• Tandle Hill Country Park
• Museum of Science and Industry, Manchester
• Manchester Museum