Science
"Science knows no country because knowledge belongs to humanity, and is the torch which illuminates the world."
Louis Pasteur
"Nothing in life is to be feared, it is only to be understood. Now is the time to understand more so that we may fear less."
Marie Curie
Intent
At Ursuline Catholic Primary School, we believe that science education is not just about learning facts and conducting experiments; it's about nurturing curiosity, critical thinking, and a deep understanding of the world around us. Our intent is to instill a lifelong love for science in our students from the very beginning, starting in the Foundation Stage (Reception) and continuing through Key Stages 1 and 2.
For the Foundation Stage (Reception), we align our science curriculum with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework. We encourage our youngest learners to explore their natural curiosity through hands-on activities, encouraging them to ask questions and discover the world around them.
In Key Stages 1 and 2, our science curriculum is guided by the National Curriculum for England. We aim to provide a structured and progressive approach to science education, ensuring students develop their scientific knowledge, investigative skills, and the ability to think critically. Through a variety of engaging experiments and activities, we foster a sense of wonder and inquiry in our students.
Implication
Our science curriculum implications are driven by the following principles:
- Engagement: We engage students through interactive lessons, real-world examples, and a range of resources to make learning fun and exciting. We strive to make science come to life in our classrooms.
- Inquiry-Based Learning: We encourage students to ask questions, explore, and investigate. This approach empowers them to become independent thinkers and problem solvers.
- Links: Connections are made between prior learning and also other curriculum subjects, including outdoor learning, to show students how it connects with the wider world. This helps them see the relevance of science in their everyday lives.
- Feedback: Feedback is provided throughout our lessons as it not only helps students improve their scientific knowledge and skills but also empowers them to become more independent and self-aware learners.
Impact
Our aim is to have a lasting impact on our students through our science curriculum:
- Knowledge and Understanding: By the time they leave Ursuline Catholic Primary School, our students will have acquired a solid foundation in scientific knowledge and concepts, aligning with the National Curriculum for Key Stages 1 and 2.
- Critical Thinking: They will be critical thinkers, capable of analyzing information, making informed decisions, and solving problems.
- Confidence: Our students will have the confidence to approach scientific challenges with enthusiasm and creativity.
- Curiosity: We hope to ignite a lifelong curiosity about the natural world, inspiring future scientists, engineers, and innovators.
We are dedicated to providing a nurturing environment where students can thrive in their scientific journey. Please view the documents below for further information about how our science curriculum achieves these aims.