Science

Vision

At St Mary's Primary School, we teach science to help our students develop a deeper understanding of the world they live in and to foster curiosity about natural phenomena. Science education is essential for equipping children with the knowledge and skills to question, explore, and make sense of the physical, biological, and technological aspects of their environment. Our science curriculum is designed to be hands-on and inquiry-based, encouraging students to observe, experiment, and reflect on their findings. By teaching science in a practical and engaging way, we help students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills that are essential in today’s world. We aim to nurture a sense of wonder and responsibility for the natural world, while also preparing students with the scientific literacy needed to navigate and contribute to an increasingly complex, technology-driven world.  

Intent

We live in an increasingly scientific and technological age where children need to acquire the knowledge, skills and attitudes to prepare them for life in the 21st Century.  We, at St Mary’s CE Primary School, believe that the teaching of science develops in children an interest and curiosity about the world in which they live and fosters in them a respect for the environment.

 

Through the framework of the National Curriculum, St Mary’s Science aims to:

 

  • 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 write their own and answer scientific questions about the world around them
  • equip pupils with the scientific knowledge required to understand the uses and implications of science, today and for the future

 

We have reviewed our curriculum to ensure a rigorous, challenging progression of learning across school.

TAPs Assessment 

At St Mary's, we use TAP’s (Teacher Assessment in Primary Science) learning assessment tasks to support learning in science because they offer a clear and structured way to evaluate students' understanding of scientific concepts.

Enrichment

At St Mary's, science enrichment is a key focus, offering students a variety of opportunities to explore and engage with the subject in dynamic ways.

 

  • The school participates in Science Week, where hands-on experiments, spark curiosity and deepen understanding.
  • St Mary’s also collaborates with other schools through  The Great Science Share, allowing students to exchange ideas and showcase projects, fostering a community of learning and scientific inquiry.
  • Additionally, the school incorporates Forest Schools, where outdoor learning brings environmental science to life, helping students connect with nature while developing practical skills in a real-world setting.

These initiatives ensure a well-rounded and exciting science education.

Key Documents

Latest News

  • We have begun our first Science units of the year! In each unit, we are introduced to famous Scientists throughout the world and history so that we can deepen our understanding of how Science fits in with the world around us.