Science is taught across the school from Nursery to Year 6, following the ‘Understanding the World’ and ‘Health and Self-Care’ strands of the ‘Development Matters’ document in Early Years and the National Curriculum from Year 1 through to Year 6. In July 2020, the school achieved the ‘Primary Science Quality Mark’ for the quality, progress and experiences the children achieve through both the teaching and additional activities provided related to Science.
The Kapow Science scheme of work is followed through Key Stages 1 and 2. In EYFS the children learn to work scientifically through hands on experiences which encourage finding the answer to enquiries and learning about the world around them.
The Kapow Science scheme of work fulfils the statutory requirements outlined by the National Curriculum and ensures that children learn to work scientifically, gain scientific knowledge and understanding and understand science in action.
The scheme is organised into seven key areas which enable the children to gain both substantive and disciplinary knowledge. Embedded within each key area is the opportunity to use all three key strands of scientific learning. Within each unit there is the opportunity to work scientifically interwoven with gaining scientific knowledge and understanding. Science in action allows the children to understand the uses and implications of science today and in the future.
When working scientifically, children follow an enquiry cycle. In their science lessons they may focus on a specific aspect and build up to complete the cycle throughout a unit. The children will be able to see how the steps interconnect to allow them to participate if full investigation opportunities with confidence of both the knowledge and skills required.
Throughout the year, the children will also participate in extra scientific opportunities to develop their science capital. These include additional science afternoons to enjoy scientific investigations and participation in recycling week and British Science week.