Our Vision for Science

“A high-quality science education provides the foundations for understanding the world through the specific disciplines of biology, chemistry and physics. Science has changed our lives and is vital to the world’s future prosperity, and all pupils should be taught essential aspects of the knowledge, methods, processes and uses of science. Through building up a body of key foundational knowledge and concepts, pupils should be encouraged to recognise the power of rational explanation and develop a sense of excitement and curiosity about natural phenomena. They should be encouraged to understand how science can be used to explain what is occurring, predict how things will behave, and analyse causes.” – National Curriculum, 2014

At our school we aim to ensure all pupils:

• have a sense of wonder and interest in the world through Science
• be inquisitive, ask questions and are motivated to find out more about the world they live in.
• are aware of the impact they can have on their own lives and the world around them.
• know about some scientific figures allowing them to recognise in themselves, the opportunities that await them and how they can have a positive impact on shaping their world.
• understand the environmental challenges our planet faces and what their role is in making a positive change.
• know and understand the life processes of living things
• know and understand the physical processes of materials, electricity, light, sound, and natural forces
• know about the nature of the solar system, including the earth
• plan and carry out scientific investigations

At St Mary’s we believe that Science is essential to our future. Pupils should know that the world has evolved because of the solutions that scientists have generated for everyday life and for helping us understand the world around us. With the future of our planet at risk, pupils need to recognise the importance of science in helping us to solve the major problems that are impacting on people around the world, including global warming, disease, poverty and equality. Therefore, in an increasingly technologically and scientifically advanced world, they need to be scientifically literate to succeed and know what opportunities they have to make an impact.

We aim to give pupils opportunities to think, learn, solve problems and make informed decisions. Having these skills will develop critical and independent thinking, contributing to the success in many curriculum areas and life skills. Making links to real life issues and through opportunities such as trips and visitors we hope to inspire future scientist.

Science Curriculum Map

Science Progression Map

Science Curriculum Overview