Science

Intent

The intent of our Science provision, at St John Henry Newman, is to foster a love for science, nurture curiosity, and develop essential scientific skills in all pupils. The curriculum ensures that pupils acquire a strong foundation in scientific knowledge and understanding, as well as the skills needed to excel in scientific investigations and critical thinking.

Aims and Objectives

1. To inspire pupils' interest and enthusiasm for science through engaging and practical learning experiences.

2. To develop pupils' knowledge and understanding of the key scientific concepts, ensuring progression over time.

3. To encourage pupils to ask questions, make predictions, and develop their scientific reasoning skills.

4. To provide opportunities for pupils to work scientifically, conducting meaningful investigations and experiments.

Implementation

At St John Henry Newman, implementation of the Science curriculum is a well-structured and wellresourced approach that ensures all pupils develop a deep understanding of scientific concepts. It involves a range of strategies, including effective lesson planning, use of high-quality resources, and promoting the active participation of pupils.

Curriculum Planning

We create well-designed long-term and medium-term plans that outline the content, skills, and progression in line with the national curriculum. Sequenced learning objectives that are clear, specific, and build upon prior knowledge. Opportunities provided for pupils to revisit and consolidate learning, enabling them to build on previous understanding.

Teaching and Learning Strategies

A range of teaching strategies employed to meet the needs of diverse learners, including practical experiments, investigations, and real-world context. We use effective use of questioning techniques to stimulate discussion, encourage critical thinking, and deepen understanding. Lessons include explicit teaching of scientific vocabulary and use of literacy skills to enhance pupils' scientific communication. We ensure opportunities for pupils to work collaboratively, developing teamwork and communication skills.

Resources and Facilities

Access to a wide range of age-appropriate resources, including books, models, ICT, and online resources that support and enrich scientific learning. We have developed a resourced ‘laboratory’ as a practical space that allow pupils to carry out hands-on experiments safely. We also utilise parts of the local environment and outdoor spaces for practical investigations, encouraging pupils to observe and explore the natural world.

Differentiation and Inclusion

In order to meet the needs of our school we adapt teaching and resources to cater to the diverse needs and abilities of pupils, including those with SEND and English as an additional language (EAL). We also offer opportunities for challenge and extension, allowing more able pupils to deepen their understanding and apply higher-order thinking skills. Providing targeted support and scaffolding, within lessons, to ensure all pupils can access and succeed in science lessons

Impact

At St John Henry Newman we have a significant impact on pupils' knowledge, skills, and understanding, as well as their attitude and enthusiasm towards science. The impact can be observed through pupils' progress, achievements, and the evidence of their scientific understanding.

Pupil Outcomes

We strive for consistently high standards in pupils' attainment and progress across all year groups, demonstrating a deepening understanding of scientific knowledge and concepts. Achievement and attainment gaps effectively narrowed, ensuring all pupils can succeed. There is evidence of pupils' ability to apply scientific knowledge and skills across a range of contexts and confidently explain scientific phenomena.

Pupil Enjoyment, Engagement, and Attitudes

Pupils' genuine enthusiasm and passion for science demonstrated through their engagement in lessons, increased participation, and active involvement in practical activities. We encourage a positive attitude towards scientific investigation, a willingness to take risks, and persistence in problem-solving.

Leadership and Management

We ensure a clear vision for science education that is communicated and shared by all staff members. Effective monitoring and evaluation of the Science provision by leadership, leading to targeted professional development for teachers to enhance their subject knowledge and pedagogy. We encourage collaborative planning and sharing of best practices among teachers to ensure consistency and high quality across year groups.