Intent
At St Peter’s Catholic Primary School, our intent for Science is for our children:
Implementation
Science is taught throughout the school in weekly lessons and is delivered by class teachers. The school follows the Kent Scheme of Work which covers 28 units of study linked to the National Curriculum and supports teachers with their lesson planning. Each of the units shows progression in the key scientific knowledge and concepts required from Year 1 to Year 6. Other sources may also be used to enhance the lessons in order to meet the needs of the children. The Kent Scheme of Work also contains the most appropriate scientific vocabulary to be used when studying a particular area of science, a list of the scientists who are working, or have worked, in that particular area of science and practical activities to support the learning.
EYFS
In Early Years, children engage in scientific activities through their study and acquirement of Understanding the World (UW). Reception pupils follow the Early Years Curriculum for UW and are assessed initially against Development Matters criteria, moving to the Early Years Profile towards the end of their Reception year.
Key Stage 1
The principal focus of science teaching in Key Stage 1 is to enable pupils to experience and observe phenomena, looking more closely at the natural and humanly-constructed world around them. During years 1 and 2, pupils should be taught to use the following practical scientific methods, processes and skills through the teaching of the programme of study content:
These will be taught through the following topics:
Lower Key Stage 2
The principal focus of science teaching in years 3 & 4 is to enable pupils to broaden their scientific view of the world around them. They should do this through:
These will be taught through the following topics:
Upper Key Stage 2
The principal focus of science teaching in upper Key Stage 2 is to enable pupils to develop a deeper understanding of a wide range of scientific ideas. They should do this through:
These will be taught through the following topics:
Teachers need to also read and apply the non-statutory guidance within the National Curriculum, to broaden the skills of the children within their class. Children will be involved in a variety of structured activities and in more open ended investigative work including:
Progress is monitored by the SLT and Science Subject Leader through book looks to ensure consistency, progression, coverage and a balance between teacher led and practical activities and moderation amongst year groups.
Impact
The children at St Peter's are confident scientists who can talk about the investigations that they have undertaken. We have Science Ambassadors across the KS2 classes and each year children take part in British Science Week. The school hosts an EYFS / KS1 and KS2 Science Fair, both of which generate huge excitement amongst the children and are very well attended. Parents are encouraged to support their children and we see a great deal of variety in the scientific investigations entered. We also host an annual Scientific Photography Exhibition and this too, generates a scientific buzz and entry levels are high. Children enjoy talking about Science and show a good understanding of the concepts that they have learnt.
Science is good when...
To develop our vision for Science, all stakeholders within St Peter's; children, parents, staff, SLT and Governors were consulted and asked if they could respond to the statement:
'Science is good when...'
We had an excellent response which showed how highly Science is valued within our school community. These are our school's principles for good Science teaching and learning.
These principles helped us to develop our vision:
Our vision is for all children to develop their scientific thinking, questioning and enquiry skills through engaging, hands-on, practical science investigations. Our aim is for children to make links to real life contexts, have new experiences and develop a lifelong love of science.
Calling all parents...can you help us virtually??
Are there any parents out there with a Scientific or Engineering background who would be willing to virtually answer questions from our children about their jobs?
We would like to start 'Engage with an Engineer' and 'Speak with a Scientist' virtual calls - once I know who may be interested and what their field of expertise is, I will gather some questions from our children and email them to those involved. We will then set up a Microsoft Teams meeting for a 'Question and Answer' session.
It would hopefully be enjoyable for both our children and you and possibly open their eyes to future career paths.
If you are interested, please contact Mr Tierney or the school office (01795 423479) or alternatively send an email to:
science@st-peters-sittingbourne.kent.sch.uk
Thank you.
Primary Science Quality Mark 2019-20
Extended to February 2021 due to COVID19 - Portfolio submitted and awaiting external moderation.
We are currently working towards achieving the Primary Science Quality Mark, a year-long CPD programme that helps schools to achieve a quality mark. It focuses on developing effective, confident science leadership for whole school impact on science teaching and learning.
The Primary Science Quality Mark:
The criteria for each Primary Science Quality Mark cover the following areas: