Science

Intent

Through enquiry-based science learning, we aim to develop and extend children’s knowledge and understanding of the world around them through practical investigations, asking questions, making observations and interpreting their findings, in order to prepare them as lifelong learners in an increasingly science and technology dominated society.

Implementation

At St Gabriel’s we believe that Science is good when….

It encourages pupils to ask questions and makes them consider how they would find the answer.
It is practical and hands on, giving pupils a chance to investigate and prove a theory.
It links to other subjects and it builds on pupils understanding of the world.

Where ever possible, science is taught through practical investigation led learning and may be the lead subject for a class topic with links made to other subjects.

We currently follow the ‘Switched on Science’ scheme of work in Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2. Each half term has a different unit to engage children with science through improving their scientific knowledge and develop their working scientifically skills. To allow children to make scientific connections with other areas of learning, the units are often linked to the other subjects, such as history, geography, art and DT.

We also celebrate science day yearly. Each year children come together from different classes to carry out investigations together and then to present in a whole school assembly at the end of the day. It is fantastic to see children not only developing their scientific knowledge, but also learning with and supporting other children of different ages

Impact

Visiting speakers, and the trips and visits children go on, ensure that science is not only memorable but enjoyable for children at St Gabriel's.

We are also very fortunate to have excellent school grounds to provide children with the opportunity for awe and wonder that science so often invokes. Children are able to make use of our very own garden and planters and have grown a variety of their own foods, such as tomatoes, potatoes, radishes, lettuce (to name a few!).

Primary Science Quality Mark - We are proud of the work by children and staff to ensure that our science curriculum is of a high standard. This has been recognised through St Gabriel’s achieving the Primary Science Quality Mark. The Primary Science Quality Mark (PSQM) is the only national award scheme to develop and celebrate the quality of science teaching and learning in primary schools.