Science

Intent

At Brandesburton Primary School, our science curriculum is designed to inspire curiosity, excitement, and a lifelong interest in the natural world. We aim to equip pupils with the knowledge and skills they need to understand how science has shaped our lives and continues to be vital to the future of our world.

We want our pupils to:

• Develop a secure understanding of key scientific concepts
• Recognise the importance of science in everyday life and future innovation
• Ask questions, explore ideas, and think critically about the world around them
• Use scientific knowledge to explain phenomena, make predictions, and analyse causes

Our curriculum encourages children to be inquisitive learners who are confident to take risks, make mistakes, and learn from them, developing both their substantive and disciplinary knowledge over time.

Implementation

Science is taught as a discrete subject, with careful consideration given to progression, even within mixed-age classes. Teaching is organised to ensure clear coverage of year group expectations, enabling pupils to build on prior learning and develop both substantive knowledge and ‘working scientifically’ skills.

Our approach includes:

• Well-sequenced lessons that build knowledge progressively
• Planned opportunities for practical investigation and enquiry-based learning
• The use individual science books to record learning, concepts, investigations and outcomes
• Explicit teaching of scientific vocabulary to support communication and understanding

Cross-curricular links are made where meaningful, allowing pupils to apply their scientific knowledge in wider contexts, including mathematics and geography.

‘Working scientifically’ skills are mapped across the school to ensure regular opportunities for children to observe, question, test, record, and evaluate. These skills are revisited frequently to support retention and progression.

Assessment is ongoing and formative. Year group assessment materials support teachers in identifying next steps and ensuring that all pupils make progress.

Enrichment opportunities, such as educational visits, visitors, and workshops, are used to enhance learning and raise pupils’ science capital.

Impact

As a result of our science curriculum, pupils at Brandesburton Primary School:

• Develop secure scientific knowledge and understanding
• Are confident in planning and carrying out investigations
• Can select and use appropriate equipment effectively
• Accurately record, interpret, and analyse results
• Use scientific vocabulary with increasing precision

Pupils demonstrate curiosity, ask thoughtful questions, and apply their learning to new contexts. They are able to draw conclusions based on evidence and understand the relevance of science both now and in the future.

Through high-quality teaching and meaningful experiences, our pupils leave primary school with a strong foundation in science and a readiness for the next stage of their education.