Science

Intent – What do we want children to learn?

We want every pupil, regardless of ability, to develop a love of Science. Our aim is for children to be curious, excited by scientific ideas, and eager to explore, investigate, make predictions, and solve problems.

Through Science, we help children:

• Investigate and solve problems
• Understand how science works
• See why science matters in the world
• Build key knowledge and concepts through hands-on investigation
• Apply their understanding to explain new phenomena
• Develop excitement and curiosity about the natural world

At Birchwood, we know children learn best when skills and knowledge are built step by step and revisited regularly. The Science Progression of Skills documents show how these skills are developed and assessed from Reception to Year 6.

Birchwood’s Bespoke Curriculum

We make learning real and hands-on whenever possible. Pupils apply their science skills to projects like sorting materials for recycling, growing fruits and vegetables in our school garden and maintaining our school pond and wildlife area. They help care for our flock of chickens whilst leanring about animal life cycles. Pupils also take part in activities like the RSPB Big Schools’ Birdwatch, using identification skills to observe wildlife.

Implementation – How are we going to achieve our intent?

All classes have weekly Science lessons that build on previous learning. The lessons are designed so children of all abilities can develop their skills and knowledge, with challenges increasing as they move up through the school.

We encourage the children to ask, as well as answer, scientific questions. They have the opportunity to use a variety of data, such as statistics, graphs, pictures and photographs. They use technology in science lessons where it enhances their learning.

At Birchwood, discussion is an important part of learning. Pupils share what they know, work together to explore new ideas, take part in role-play, present reports, and solve problems. They also take part in real scientific activities, like experiments with the school pond or projects to protect our school habitat.

Impact – What will it look like when we have achieved our intent?

There are many ways our curriculum positively impacts pupils.

We hold an annual STEM Celebration to spark pupils’ interest in science, technology, engineering, and maths. Past events have included KS2 Science Escape activities, hands-on workshops like exploring sound and fingerprint analysis, and visits to Adastral Park to see science in action with the BT Innovations Team.

As part of learning about animals, pupils help incubate chicken eggs, care for the chicks, and release them into our free-range ‘Chicken Forest.’ This hands-on experience teaches biology, animal care, food science, and sustainable living, while also providing eggs for the school.

For more information on how to support your child in Science, please follow the link below.

• Parents Guides