Subjects

Intent

At West Ewell Primary School, it is the intent of our science curriculum to encourage students to develop inquisitive minds and curiosity about science and the natural world. Through our carefully sequenced programme of study, we give children regular opportunities to think analytically, critically and use the working scientifically skills to help them 'discover’ new knowledge or adapt their thinking.  

We aim for children to develop values of honesty and respect towards living and non-living organisms, the physical environment and when evaluating evidence. We make regular use of our local environment as well as our school grounds to give children first hand opportunities to broaden their scientific knowledge and skills. By the end of Year 6, children will be able to describe and discuss how science is applied and used to solve local and global problems. 

Implementation

Foundation Stage 

Children in the foundation stage are taught the science elements of the foundation stage document through the Early Years Foundation Stage Curriculum, Knowledge and Understanding of the World. Children will be supported in developing the knowledge, skills and understanding that help them to make sense of the world. Their learning will be supported through offering opportunities for them to use a range of tools safely; encounter creatures, people, plants and objects in their natural environments and in real-life situations; undertake practical ‘experiments’; and work with a range of materials. This includes learning through play, discussion and adult directed activities. 

Key Stage 1 and 2 

Our role is to teach scientific enquiry through the contexts of the three main content areas, whilst following the principles of the implemented Challenge Curriculum within the school. The old SC1 strand is now called working scientifically. 

Impact

The successful approach at West Ewell Primary School results in a fun, engaging, high-quality science education, that provides children with the foundations for understanding the world. The spiral curriculum is well thought out and is planned to enable children to demonstrate progression. If children are keeping up with the curriculum, they are deemed to be making good or better progress.  

In addition, we measure the impact of our curriculum through the following methods:  

• A reflection on standards achieved against the National Curriculum statements 

• End of topic extended tasks, which demonstrates progression across the school

• Pupil discussions about their learning

WEPS Science Programme of Study