Intent

At Northleaze Church of England Primary School, we nurture children as curious, confident and reflective learners. Our science curriculum inspires curiosity and a sense of wonder about the natural world, encouraging pupils to ask meaningful questions, explore their surroundings and develop a secure understanding of scientific knowledge and skills.

Rooted in our Christian vision of ‘Let Your Light Shine’, we promote curiosity, perseverance and respect for the living and non‑living world. Our curriculum follows the National Curriculum and is carefully sequenced to ensure clear progression of both scientific knowledge and Working Scientifically skills across all year groups, enabling all children to flourish as scientists.

Implementation

Science is taught through well‑planned and engaging units that are carefully sequenced to build knowledge and skills over time. Teachers ensure that learning builds on prior knowledge, enabling pupils to make connections and deepen their understanding as they progress through the school.

Lessons provide regular opportunities for hands‑on enquiry, observation, investigation and discussion. Subject‑specific vocabulary is explicitly taught and teachers model the effective use of scientific equipment, supporting pupils to communicate their ideas accurately and confidently.

Skilled questioning, ongoing assessment and timely feedback are used to identify and address misconceptions, ensuring learning is secure. Teaching is adapted to meet the needs of all learners, enabling every child to access and succeed in science.

Working Scientifically skills are embedded throughout the curriculum, with pupils becoming increasingly confident in planning investigations, recording results and drawing conclusions. Learning is enriched through outdoor opportunities, real‑life contexts, visitors and trips, helping pupils make meaningful links to the wider world.

Impact

As a result of our science curriculum, pupils at Northleaze develop strong scientific knowledge, enquiry skills and a positive attitude towards learning. They confidently use scientific vocabulary, explain their thinking and apply their skills across a range of contexts.

Children understand the relevance of science in everyday life and develop a sense of responsibility for the natural world. They are curious, thoughtful and resilient learners who recognise the importance of evidence, questioning and perseverance. Pupils leave Northleaze well prepared for the next stage of their education and motivated to continue exploring and understanding the world around them.