Science

Science is an important and valued subject because it is highly relevant; an integral part of daily life, from cooking and checking the weather, to recycling and nature walks. Through science, our lives are changed for the better. We believe all pupils should be taught about the role that science plays in positive advancements, as well as scientific knowledge, methods and processes. Advances in science are continuing to transform our world at lightning speed and we need to do our best to prepare our pupils for a future we can only imagine.

Science teaching and learning is concerned with increasing pupils’ knowledge and understanding of our world, and with developing skills associated with Science as a process of enquiry. At Kenilworth we use the Kent Primary Science Scheme of Work, a curriculum designed to develop the natural curiosity of the child, encourage respect for living organisms and the physical environment and provide opportunities for critical evaluation of evidence.

Intent

In conjunction with the aims of the National Curriculum, we have established the following aims for our curriculum:

To nurture pupils' natural curiosity and help develop inquiring minds.
To teach pupils about the important interaction between human activity and the environment and how we can make a positive impact.
To acquire knowledge and conceptual understanding to solve problems and make informed decisions.
To develop in pupils' an attitude of respect for themselves, others and the world around them.
To help pupils develop the skills to think critically, solve problems and make decisions.

Implementation

The Kent Primary Science Scheme of Work provides a structure and skill development for the science curriculum, whilst following the National Curriculum.

Science is taught through working scientifically (involving practical investigation, observation and application skills, enquiry and research) alongside specific taught subject knowledge. Learning takes place both inside and outside the classroom.

Through our planning, we involve problem solving opportunities that allow children to find out for themselves. Children are encouraged to ask their own questions and be given opportunities to use their scientific skills and research to discover the answers. This curiosity is celebrated within the classroom. Planning involves teachers creating engaging lessons, often involving high-quality resources to aid understanding of conceptual knowledge. Teachers use precise questioning in class to test conceptual knowledge and skills, and assess children regularly to identify those children with gaps in learning, so that all children keep up.
We build upon the learning and skill development of the previous years. As the children’s knowledge and understanding increases, and they become more proficient in selecting, using scientific equipment, collating and interpreting results, they become increasingly confident in their growing ability to come to conclusions based on real evidence.
Working Scientifically skills are embedded into lessons to ensure these skills are being developed throughout the children’s school career and new vocabulary and challenging concepts are introduced through direct teaching. This is developed through the years, in-keeping with the topics.
Teachers demonstrate how to use scientific equipment, and the various Working Scientifically skills in order to embed scientific understanding. Teachers find opportunities to develop children’s understanding of their surroundings by accessing outdoor learning and workshops with experts.
Further opportunities for science are weaved into everyday learning.
Kenilworth also celebrates science by partaking in British Science Week every spring. This is where the whole school undertake different science enquiries about the same topic.
Within topics and assemblies we introduce children to a diverse range of scientists and focus on 'What makes a scientist?' ensuring children are able to identify and prepare for jobs in scientific fields in later life.