Science Curriculum Statement

At Worth Primary School, we aim to build a strong foundation of scientific knowledge by nurturing the natural curiosity children have about the world around them. Our science curriculum is designed to inspire excitement, wonder and critical thinking, encouraging children to explore, question and make sense of their environment through the disciplines of biology, chemistry and physics. Scientific enquiry is at the heart of our approach, and children learn to ask thoughtful questions, conduct practical investigations, and draw conclusions based on evidence and observation.

Through carefully planned learning opportunities, scientific language and skills are progressively built upon each year. Children revisit and deepen their understanding of key concepts, enabling them to connect new learning with prior knowledge. We understand the importance of science in understanding our past, shaping our present and securing our future, and we aim to ignite a lasting interest in science that will stay with pupils throughout their lives.

Science is taught as a discrete subject from Year 1 to Year 6 using the Plymouth Science Scheme, which is fully aligned with the National Curriculum. In Reception, scientific understanding is introduced through the EYFS Statutory Framework’s ‘Understanding the World’ strand, supported by the same scheme. Teachers foster a positive learning environment that values investigation, promotes high expectations and encourages all pupils to succeed. Practical enquiry forms a core part of every unit, allowing children to engage in hands-on experiences that develop both their knowledge and their ability to work scientifically.

At the beginning of each topic, children are given the opportunity to share what they already know. This not only informs planning but allows pupils to reflect on their own learning journey. By the end of each unit, they can clearly articulate what they have learned and how their understanding has developed. Scientific vocabulary is modelled and embedded throughout, and cross-curricular links are made wherever meaningful to enrich learning. Educational visits, workshops and memorable experiences are also used to extend learning beyond the classroom and enhance pupils’ engagement.

By the time they leave Worth Primary School, pupils are enthusiastic and curious scientists who enjoy exploring the world through a scientific lens. They are confident in their use of scientific vocabulary, eager to ask and investigate meaningful questions, and well-prepared for the next stage of their scientific learning in secondary school. Most importantly, they leave us with a sense of excitement about science and its place in their lives and the wider world.