Science – Curriculum Intention
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 scientific 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 Thoresby Primary school, we recognise the importance of science in everyday life. Our curriculum offers the opportunity to develop scientific knowledge and the skills that pupils need to maintain a curiosity and understanding of the world. Our intent is for all children to improve their ‘scientific thinking’ and deepen their scientific knowledge.
Implementation
All children will be given the opportunity to ask questions and develop an understanding of and a curiosity for the world around them. Our planning is developed from the National Curriculum for science. The foci for each unit of science are the key knowledge objectives. Lessons are planned so that children learn about the products of science (substantive knowledge) and can explore and develop their knowledge through a hands-on investigative approach. There is also a focus on the key vocabulary which is introduced and specifically taught to children at the beginning of each unit.
When planning for science, teachers look back at previous learning in the specific science area and through use of a ‘previous key component knowledge’ activity, they are able to build on this previous knowledge and reinforce any gaps in their learning. At the end of the unit, a post unit assessment task is used to evaluate the effectiveness of the work and ensure pupils have had the opportunity to develop their knowledge to the best of their ability.
In our planning, the working scientifically objectives have been spread out across each year. This is to ensure that the skills are specifically taught so the pupils can use these in their future learning. Opportunities are made for children to have a good coverage of the enquiry types over the year.
Planning involves teachers creating engaging lessons from a teaching sequence, aiming to aid understanding of conceptual knowledge. Scaffolding and support will be provided for pupils that have SEND requirements so that they can reach their full potential. Teachers use precise questioning in class to test conceptual knowledge and skills and they assess children regularly to identify those with gaps in learning, so that all children have the opportunity to be successful.
Where possible, enrichment opportunities are also planned to create a sounder understanding of scientific concepts. Children are offered visits, trips and visitors to complement and broaden the curriculum. These are purposeful and link with the knowledge being taught in class. Regular events, such as Science/STEM Week allow pupils to experience broader provision, make links with industry and the acquisition and application of knowledge and skills.
Impact
· Children at Thoresby Primary School overwhelmingly enjoy science and, this results in motivated learners with sound scientific understanding.
· This leads to higher standards in science in substantive knowledge, disciplinary knowledge and understanding.
· Pupils will develop integral skills, such as strategic thinking, learning, solving problems and making informed decisions, needed in life and career.
· Pupils will have been provided with the firm foundations and knowledge for understanding the world.
Additional support, resources and information:
Exceptional! So supportive. Staff go above and beyond for both of my children and it is much appreciated.
I think Thoresby is a very good school. My boys always enjoy coming to school. The teachers are very helpful ad friendly.
My son has loved attending Thoresby. He takes the Thoresby values with him and has turned into a lovely boy. I know the school has contributed to him.
Thoresby management team ensure that the school is inclusive and forward thinking. I have always been impressed by the way this school is run and continue to be – especially their dedication to child protection and wellbeing programmes.
It has a really supportive, friendly and relaxed atmosphere. It is inclusive and family orientated.
The teachers are supportive, honest and provide help and encouragement to all needs of the children and parents.
We are lucky to have Kaleidoscope every year! We learn so much and everyone comes together for a celebration.
This school offers varied education in an environment with so many children from so many parts of the world, and do it very well you see happy smiling children every day! Hats off to this school!
Thoresby is a special place.
Our son is absolutely thriving at Thoresby. He has really got on well with his teachers and enjoyed lessons. If asked he would say the dinners are best but his progress speaks for itself. Thank you.
My daughter started in September and she has flourished. Not only in an academic sense but in terms of her social skills and her open-mindedness to others – it’s been a fantastic experience for her!
I would like to say that both our children – daughter in year 4 and son in year 6, enjoy attending their lessons and their topics they are being taught.
Excellent communication from the school. Amiable, knowledgeable and caring staff. A strong school with an impressive ethos.
I feel the school is a blessing for parents who have the opportunity to send their kids here as they provide the best education and pastoral care possible.
My daughter has been coming here since nursery and has always loved the school, she is doing really well in all her subjects and I couldn’t be happier with her progress.
We love Thoresby. Both of our girls go there and have had a fantastic time. It is very supportive and nurturing.
Both of my daughters have thrived since coming to Thoresby. I am so pleased with their progress.
Thoresby gives me the opportunity to have a great education. The topics are great!
Thorersby combines academics, crafts and sport to bring out the best in their students. Good Job!
It’s a great school. My child is settled and any problems are dealt with quickly.
Our son has been coming here for 8 years. He will be doing his SATs soon. He loves coming here and loves the food. He has so many friends and loves all his classes too. He gets on well with everybody and all his teachers have been brilliant with him. Thoresby is a good school.
My son and daughter are both very happy at Thoresby. The staff are approachable and helpful and the children are offered a good variety of different opportunities.
Thoresby helps us to learn that we are all unique and special in our own way.
Thoresby gives me the opportunity to have a great education. The topics are great!
Our daughter started Thoresby in September 2018 – she has grown in confidence and the support from her teachers is constant. We are very happy with everything the school offers and provides.
Thoresby has been brilliant for my boys, really supportive and encouraging.
My daughter is making great progress at Thoresby. Overall I am very pleased with every aspect.
Thoresby gives us opportunities to spend time with the coaches and develop our sports skills.
Thoresby is an amazing school and the best aspect of the school are the brilliant selfless teachers who put the children at the forefront of everything.
My daughter enjoys all aspects of school life, she involves herself in many activities and represents the school in various team sports. We are pleased with all her progress.
My children are very happy at school.
Thoresby gives me the opportunity to have a great education. The topics are great!
We are very happy with Thoresby, lovely staff and teachers.
My daughter really loves going to Thoresby. She is doing brilliantly and I am beyond grateful that she goes to such a good school.
The outside area is so much fun!
I am proud to be part of the Thoresby community.
All three of my children have been taught at Thoresby with my youngest leaving this year. I have fond memories of Thoresby over the years and found staff helpful and very supportive.
My daughter has had a fantastic education at Thoresby and her teachers have supported her emotional development as well.
Everybody is welcome at Thoresby.
Thoresby is amazing! Everyone is made to feel welcome and part of the community. I’m so happy that my son gets to attend this school.
I think Thoresby is an amazing school. The teachers are approachable and my son loves school.
The support from the teaching staff is very good and the pastoral care of our children, especially when needed for our son. Overall very positive.
I adore the nursery and the different learning areas. I really appreciate the kitchen making specials treats and meals for children with allergies.
Thoresby is a brilliant school and my kids love coming here.