Our Vision:
Through a positive caring environment, we provide the opportunity for every child to reach their full potential.
- To develop pupils’ enjoyment and interest in science and an appreciation of its contribution to all aspects of everyday life
- To build on pupils’ curiosity and sense of awe of the natural world
- To use a planned range of investigations and practical activities to give pupils a greater understanding of the concepts and knowledge of science
- To introduce pupils to the language and vocabulary of science
- To develop pupils’ basic practical skills and their ability to make accurate and appropriate measurements
- To develop pupils’, use of computing in their science studies.
- To extend the learning environment for our pupils via our environmental areas and the locality
- To promote a ‘healthy lifestyle’ in our pupils.
Rationale:
Science is a systematic investigation of the physical, chemical and biological aspects of the world which relies on first hand experiences and on other sources of information. The scientific process and pupils’ problem-solving activities will be used to deepen their understanding of the concepts involved. The main aspects of science to be studied will be determined by the programmes of study of the National Curriculum.
Through science pupils at Heaton Park Primary School will continue to deepen their respect, care and appreciation for the natural world and all its phenomena.
Continuity and Progression:
Foundation Stage pupils investigate science as part of Understanding of the World. Children are encouraged to investigate through practical experience; teachers guide the children and plan opportunities that allow the children to experience and learn whilst experimenting for themselves. This is supported through the use of continuous provision. Children’s learning is further developed through adult led activities and questioning.
Children’s learning and understanding of Science is supported through the use of ‘Science Superheroes’ which is a planning format developed by the Science Coordinators to establish an understanding of the key skills needed to work scientifically. This further develops the children’s skills of planning and carrying out investigations. Children are exposed to the use of the correct scientific vocabulary from the beginning of KS1.
At Heaton Park we have adapted our standardised investigation framework for KS2 children, increasing their independence to allow them to work scientifically and use the correct terminology.
The knowledge and content prescribed in the National Curriculum will be introduced throughout both key stages in a progressive and coherent way.
Learning Environment:
Learning environments should be consistent throughout school and correct use of working walls should be visible in all classrooms. The Science working walls are all displayed on green backing paper, to coincide with the use of green books for Science, this supports the ethos of being a dyslexia friendly school.
Resources:
Specialist pieces of equipment and those posing a potential safety risk will be held centrally and staff access when required. Resource list was updated in summer 2020 following a resource audit. All staff are aware of who subject coordinators are and where to find equipment.
Health and safety:
Pupils will be taught to use scientific equipment safely when using it during practical activities. Class Teachers and Teaching Assistants will check equipment regularly and report any damage, taking defective equipment out of action. Any investigations that the class teacher deems a potential risk will be discussed with the Head Teacher and appropriate risk assessments carried out if necessary. Adults will stop any practical activity if they feel the children’s behaviour could lead to an accident.
Assessment and recording:
All staff should follow the assessment grids to identify those children who are working above the expected standard and below the expected standard. This can be found on the staff shared area and should be done for each topic. This information is to be included in transition files.
Click the documents below to view our Heaton Park Science Principles and our progression of skills across school.
EYFS RECEPTION Science Long Term Plan
Long term overview Science Year 1
Long term overview Science Year 2
Long term overview Science Year 3
Long term overview Science Year 4
