Science

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Our Science Curriculum has been sequenced and mapped deliberately and coherently. Through KAPOW, we aim to teach high quality, well thought out and knowledge rich lessons that demonstrate progression.

Intent

At Rectory C.E. Primary School, we recognise the vital role that science plays in everyday life. As a core subject, science is given the prominence it deserves, ensuring that all pupils develop a deep and lasting understanding of scientific concepts and skills.

Our science curriculum is designed to:

🔍 Increase pupils’ knowledge and understanding of the natural and physical world
🌱 Foster curiosity and a sense of wonder about how and why things happen
🧪 Develop scientific enquiry skills through hands-on investigations and practical exploration
🧠 Build conceptual understanding across the disciplines of biology, chemistry, and physics
🧾 Encourage the use of scientific language and a variety of methods to communicate findings, including ICT, diagrams, graphs, and charts
🧯 Promote safe and respectful handling of materials and equipment
🚀 Inspire enthusiasm for scientific learning and discovery, both in and beyond the classroom

In line with the National Curriculum, our teaching supports children in understanding the nature, processes and methods of science. Through a carefully sequenced programme of study, pupils learn to ask questions, test ideas, evaluate evidence and draw conclusions—developing as independent, reflective learners.

By encouraging children to work scientifically, we aim to broaden their horizons and lay the foundation for future learning, careers, and informed participation in a scientific and technological world.

Implementation

At Rectory C.E. Primary School, science is taught weekly in every year group to ensure consistent, high-quality coverage of the National Curriculum. We follow the Kapow Primary Science scheme, a comprehensive and progressive programme that supports teachers in delivering engaging, well-structured lessons.

The Kapow scheme provides a clear sequence of learning from Year 1 to Year 6, ensuring that pupils:

Develop a secure understanding of key scientific concepts in biology, chemistry, and physics
Learn to work scientifically through investigations, observations, fair testing and research
Use accurate scientific vocabulary and a variety of recording methods, including diagrams, tables, graphs and digital tools
Build confidence in asking questions, making predictions, and drawing conclusions based on evidence
Recognise the real-world relevance of science and its impact beyond the classroom

Lessons are interactive and inclusive, using practical activities, visual models, and enquiry-focused tasks to promote curiosity and critical thinking. The spiral structure of the curriculum allows pupils to revisit and deepen key concepts over time, supporting long-term retention and progression.

Science learning is enriched through:

Outdoor learning and exploration of the local environment
Science weeks and themed days to celebrate discovery, innovation and problem solving

Impact

The impact of our science curriculum is reflected in the confidence, curiosity, and scientific thinking demonstrated by our pupils. Through the structured and engaging approach provided by Kapow, children develop a deep and lasting understanding of scientific concepts and processes.

By the end of Key Stage 2, our pupils:

✅ Demonstrate secure knowledge across the disciplines of biology, chemistry, and physics
🔬 Apply a wide range of scientific enquiry skills, including observing, predicting, investigating and evaluating evidence
🧠 Use scientific vocabulary confidently and accurately to explain their thinking
📊 Present findings clearly using appropriate methods such as diagrams, charts and digital tools
🌍 Make meaningful connections between science and the world around them
💡 Show enthusiasm for scientific learning and readiness to explore new ideas independently

Regular assessment, including formative observations and summative tasks, ensures that progress is monitored and misconceptions are addressed.

Ultimately, our science curriculum equips pupils with the knowledge, skills and mindset to become inquisitive, reflective, and responsible learners, laying a strong foundation for future scientific study and lifelong curiosity.