Science

Science is one of the core subjects of the National Curriculum and, as such, we recognise the importance of teaching science on a regular basis. Our science curriculum is determined by:

• Reception: Early years foundation stage statutory framework
• Key Stage 1 and 2: National Curriculum Science Programme of Study

At Drake Primary School, our curriculum aims to ensure that all pupils:

• Develop scientific knowledge and conceptual understanding through the specific disciplines of biology, chemistry and physics.
• Develop understanding of the nature, processes and methods of science through different types of science enquiries that help them to answer scientific questions about the world around them.
• Are equipped with the scientific skills required to understand the uses and implications of science, today and for the future.

Science is taught once a week, for up to two hours. Lessons comprise a mixture of knowledge acquisition and experiments or investigations. Our Science curriculum builds on children’s prior learning; giving them the opportunity to embed their knowledge and develop new scientific skills. Science lessons are often linked to cross-curricular topics to provide a creative scheme of work and a balanced programme of studies.

We understand that it is important for lessons to have a skills-based focus. Working scientifically is embedded into Science lessons, and not taught as a separate strand.

We use the following 6 types of Scientific enquiry:

1. Comparative / Fair testing
2. Reseach
3. Observation over time
4. Pattern seeking
5. Identifying, grouping and classifying
6. Problem solving

Experiments allow pupils to test hypotheses and challenge their perceptions of the world around them. At Drake Primary, we encourage pupils to be inquisitive throughout their time at the school. We aim to create resilient learners who are problem solvers, able to gather and assess data, can work in teams and independently. We provide a wide range of experiences, including outdoor learning to aid advancement of knowledge and skills in preparation for the future. We use current science research as exemplars and stimuli for learners. We are developing links with the John Innes Centre and their cutting-edge scientific research with the aim of inspiring the next generation of scientists. We ensure that working scientifically skills are built-on and developed throughout children’s time at Drake so that they can apply their knowledge of science when using equipment, conducting experiments, building arguments and explaining concepts confidently. 

Regular visits or visitors bring science to life. For example, we have visited the Royal Observatory, had a planetarium in the school hall and been visited by a palaeontologist. In Forest School, children look at plant growth and animal life-cycles. Our school Eco-Council meet weekly to discuss our school and local environment. The council has surveyed energy use in the school, sampled the school voice about recycling and made sure the school library has books about the environment. They are planning to make a nature trail linking the playground to the green spaces around the school. The school celebrates British Science Week with an annual focus on science in lesson activities.