Science

Science Curriculum Aims

At Levendale Primary School, we deliver Science lessons that inspire and excite our children through an engaging practical-based curriculum.

We develop pupils’ knowledge and understanding of our world, and the skills associated with science as a process of enquiry.

Alongside developing children’s natural curiosity, we encourage respect for living organisms and the physical environment and provide opportunities for the critical evaluation of evidence.

Our curriculum fully meets the expectations of the National Curriculum and includes opportunities to:

• develop scientific knowledge, enquiry skills and conceptual understanding
• develop an understanding of the processes and methods of science through different types of enquiry that help them to answer questions about the world around them
• be equipped with the knowledge and skills required to understand the uses and implications of science, today and for the future
• use a range of methods to communicate scientific information and present it in a systematic, scientific manner
• encourage children to focus on the work of great scientists
• use and apply a growing bank of scientific vocabulary and to understand how science can be used to explain what is occurring, predict how things will behave, and analyse causes
• develop a respect for the materials and equipment they handle with regard to their own, and other children’s safety
• ensure that all children are exposed to high quality teaching and learning experiences, which allow children to explore their outdoor environment and locality
• ensure that all children develop an understanding of how their body works and how to stay healthy
• develop an enthusiasm and enjoyment of scientific learning and discovery

Whole School Curriculum Aims

Levendale Curriculum Goals – Science

Healthy and Safe	Children are taught how to use scientific equipment safely and learn about hazards, including in the home.  Through studying Animals including humans, children learn why physical activity, hygiene (including dental) and nutrition and diet are important to keep animals healthy. Children learn about the importance of handwashing. Environmental factors, such as noise and litter pollution, are also part of science lessons.
Positive Mindset	Through learning about healthy lifestyles, children develop skills and understanding about ways to promote their mental health. Children learn about the importance of sleep and rest. We teach critical thinking skills and enquiry which supports decision making and children develop an understanding of consequences.
Respect	Children are taught to respect all living things and their environment throughout the teaching of science.  Children learn about collaboration when working together and respect for each other’s ideas. The Green Team in school helps to highlight environmental issues with a particular focus on Earth Day.
Independence	Through asking and answering their own questions, children develop natural curiosity and independent thinking. Children have opportunities to collect and analyse their own information and data and record their personal findings. Children have opportunities to choose their own equipment and design their own investigations.
Pupil Voice	Children have opportunities to explore their own topic-related interest, asking and answering their own questions. Links are made to everyday lives so that they see the relevance of what is taught and experiences enable them to form their own opinions. We promote discussion through paired, group and whole class work, with opportunities to present in front of an audience.
Aspirational	We take part in an annual Science Week, and include opportunities throughout the academic year, where children learn about ways science can improve lives and careers that link to science, such as roles within the NHS, Dentistry, Science Laboratories, Food preparation, etc. We invite parents into school for careers talks and to support the teaching of science. Children are introduced to a wide range of role models from the world of STEM and different scientists and their achievements.  Year 6 take part in ‘Children Challenging Industry’ each year to develop their understanding of STEM careers further.

Our Science Curriculum is progressive in knowledge and skills that are taught.