Breckon Hill Primary School Curriculum Statement
The National Curriculum for science aims to ensure that all pupils:
- develop scientific knowledge and conceptual understanding through the specific disciplines of biology, chemistry and physics
- develop understanding of the nature, processes and methods of science through different types of science enquiries that help them to answer questions about the world around them
- are equipped with the scientific knowledge required to understand the uses and implications of science, today and for the future
Intent
At Breckon Hill Primary school, we believe that every day is an opportunity to learn, explore and discover. Our science curriculum is inclusive by design and aims to inspire all pupils to develop curiosity about the world around them, regardless of background, ability or starting point. We want every child to feel valued, capable and confident as a scientist.
Oracy is central to our science curriculum. We intend for pupils to develop the ability to articulate scientific ideas clearly, ask thoughtful questions, listen respectfully to others and engage in purposeful discussion. Through structured talk, partner work and collaborative investigations, pupils build scientific understanding, deepen reasoning and develop confidence in expressing their thinking. P4C questions for each topic help to foster the children’s learning and deepen their thinking and spoken techniques.
Our intent is to:
- Provide meaningful, high-quality science learning every day through rich experiences and purposeful enquiry.
- Ensure all pupils can access and succeed in science through inclusive practice, adaptation and support.
- Develop strong foundations of scientific knowledge across biology, chemistry and physics, revisiting key ideas to secure understanding over time.
- Embed oracy as a tool for learning, enabling pupils to use scientific vocabulary accurately and explain, justify and evaluate ideas.
- Foster enjoyment, resilience and a sense of achievement so that all pupils recognise their progress and potential.
We aim for pupils to leave primary school as confident communicators and curious, independent learners who understand that science is part of everyday life.
Implementation
Science is taught through an inclusive, well-sequenced curriculum at Breckon Hill that makes the most of every learning opportunity, both inside and outside the classroom. Lessons are designed to be practical, engaging and accessible, ensuring that all pupils can participate fully and succeed. Adaptations are made to tailor the learning for all pupils regardless of their background.
Key features of implementation include:
- Carefully structured progression of knowledge and skills from EYFS to Year 6.
- Regular hands-on investigations and real-life contexts to bring science learning to life.
- Explicit teaching and consistent use of scientific vocabulary, supported by visuals, modelling and repetition.
- A range of enquiry types embedded across year groups to develop scientific thinking.
- Thoughtful adaptations, scaffolding and challenge to meet the needs of all learners, including SEND, EAL and disadvantaged pupils.
- Use of assessment quizzes after each topic area to identify gaps, address misconceptions promptly and maximise learning in every lesson.
- Rapid Recall questions are used each lesson to revisit and address learning gaps
Science is valued as part of the daily learning experience, encouraging pupils to notice, question and explore the world around them every day.
Impact
The impact of our inclusive science curriculum is that all pupils make progress from their individual starting points and develop confidence in their scientific abilities. Pupils are motivated, engaged and able to apply their learning meaningfully.
This is evidenced through:
- Pupils who can talk confidently about science using appropriate vocabulary.
- Secure understanding of key scientific concepts and enquiry skills.
- High levels of participation and enthusiasm from all learners.
- Pupils who recognise science in their everyday experiences and understand its relevance.
- Learners who are well prepared for the next stage of their education.
By making the most of every day, our science curriculum ensures that every child experiences success, curiosity and a lifelong interest in science.
