We believe that 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, as well as teaching working scientifically skills, 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, raise questions and analyse causes. The Hive, our C&I specialist provision, follows the full National Curriculum in step with whole-school long-term plans and adapts teaching to EHCP targets so every pupil can ‘be the best that they can be!’
PSQM
We are delighted that we have been awarded the Primary Science Quality Mark.
Primary Science Quality Marks have been awarded to 200 infant, junior, primary, middle and special schools to celebrate a commitment to excellence in science teaching and learning. So far, since its national launch in 2010, over 3000 schools across the UK have achieved a prestigious Primary Science Quality Mark.
The Primary School Quality Mark programme ensures effective leadership of science, enables schools to work together to share good practice and is supported by professional development led by local experts. It encourages teacher autonomy and innovation while at the same time offering a clear framework for development in science subject leadership, teaching and learning. Schools that achieve PSQM demonstrate commitment and expertise in science teaching and leadership.
The Primary Science Quality Mark is led by the University of Hertfordshire, School of Education in collaboration with the Primary Science Teaching Trust.
Jane Turner, PSQM National Director said: “Gaining a Primary Science Quality Mark is a significant achievement for a school. The profile and quality of science teaching and learning in each awarded school is very high. Children are engaging with great science both in and outside the classroom, developing positive attitudes towards science as well as secure scientific understanding and skills. Science subject leaders, their colleagues, head teachers, children, parents and governors should be very proud.”
Mr Pattison completed the PSQM again in round 2024 with a network of local schools.
Cross Curricular links to Science:
The skills and knowledge the children use in Science complement those in the rest of the curriculum. These are just some of the ways that Science links to other areas of their study:
1:1 iPads are used to support all learning in science. Children use a variety of APPs to capture and present their scientific thinking.
Numerous geographical units go hand in hand with the science ones, especially those surrounding the theme of sustainability and our role as global citizens.
Significant scientists throughout history and the impact that they have had on the world are studied throughout the school and curriculum.
Statistical tools learnt in maths are applied in science, as well as applying their understanding of number.
Pupils are taught about the impact of staying healthy and the effect that exercise has on our bodies.
Comprehension Crusher units cover the key science curriculum learning (both within current year groups and prior ones to reignite learning). Key texts related to science units are studied in each year group.
Children produce extended pieces of writing around the books that cover the scientific concepts.
