Our intent is to inspire every child at Meltham Moor to be an inquisitive and confident learner and to see themselves as a scientist. The curriculum fosters a healthy curiosity about our world, supports children to act responsibly and promotes respect for both the living and non-living world.

In line with the National Curriculum, we aim to:

· Develop scientific knowledge and conceptual understanding through the specific disciplines of biology, chemistry and physics.

· Encourage pupils to ask questions, think critically and communicate their ideas using precise scientific vocabulary.

· Develop an understanding of the nature, processes and methods of science through a range of scientific enquiries that help children answer questions about the world around them.

· Equip pupils with the scientific skills needed to carry out effective investigations including interpreting and presenting data and drawing relevant conclusions from this.

· Build a strong foundation of curiosity and enthusiasm that continues beyond primary school into KS3, KS4 and beyond.

Our overarching goal is for all pupils to develop the knowledge, skills and confidence to explore and explain the world scientifically while ensuring that they have the enthusiasm to do so.

Science holds a high profile across Meltham Moor. Teachers create a positive classroom culture in which every child is recognised as a scientist. High expectations and inclusive teaching ensure that all pupils, regardless of background or ability, achieve success.

In EYFS, children’s scientific understanding is developed through exploration, play and discovery within the Understanding of the World framework. Activities are driven by children’s interests and provide opportunities for early investigation, observation and questioning. Key learning is captured in floor books.

In KS1 and KS2, science is taught as a discrete subject each week for a minimum of one hour, following the National Curriculum and supported by Collins Snap Science materials. Baseline knowledge is gathered as new topics are embarked upon through a K.W. grid and this knowledge is built upon each session as children discover the answer to a specific question. Lessons are planned to build on previous knowledge and develop Working Scientifically skills through a clear progression across year groups. Children’s science books record a snap-shot of the learning that takes place although the emphasis in lessons is on deep learning rather than record keeping. Echo tasks ensure children revisit prior learning and that these key concepts/vocabulary is embedded.

Our approach includes:

· Practical, hands-on enquiry in every lesson to develop curiosity and independence.

· Explicit teaching of scientific vocabulary and key concepts which is displayed on Working Walls enabling children to refer to it regularly.

· Cross-curricular connections that make learning meaningful.

· Use of our fabulous outdoor environment for investigation and discovery.

· Magical, memorable enrichment opportunities such as Science Week, educational visits/visitors and activities highlighted in More at Meltham Moor that bring real-life science into the classroom.

· Adaptive teaching to meet the needs of all learners, including those with SEND.

· Regular assessment and reflection using questioning, quizzes, exit tickets, pupil discussions and observation to monitor progress and address misconceptions.

Through this consistent, structured and engaging approach, children build confidence in using equipment, conducting fair tests, recording results and drawing conclusions based on evidence.

Teachers are to explicitly teach the key concepts throughout their Science lessons. Children will build on these skills throughout their time at Meltham Moor and will become increasingly confident by end of their learning journey.

• Ask and answer questions

• Observe closely

• Plan investigations

• Identify and classify

• Gather and record data

• Report and present

• Use scientific evidence

• Great Scientists

When teaching Science, the teacher will demonstrate how to safely use scientific equipment, and the various Working Scientifically skills in order to embed scientific understanding. The teacher will always find opportunities to develop children’s understanding of their surroundings by accessing outdoor learning opportunities and workshops.

Equal Opportunities Consideration is always given in respect of cultural differences and experiences and to children for whom English is an additional language. All children with an EHCP are provided with challenging experiences in a flexible manner suited to their individual requirements.

Children are offered a wide range of extra-curricular activities, visits, trips and visitors to complement and broaden the Science curriculum. These are purposeful and link with the knowledge and skills being taught in class.

At Meltham Moor we aim to provide broader provision for the acquisition and application of knowledge and skills through events, such as Science Week and Wild Learning Days.

Through our engaging and progressive science curriculum, children at Meltham Moor develop a deep understanding of scientific concepts and a lifelong curiosity about the world. They are equipped with the skills to think critically, investigate systematically and communicate their findings confidently using accurate scientific vocabulary.

As a result, pupils:

· Demonstrate secure knowledge of scientific ideas and processes supported by age-appropriate scientific vocabulary.

· Understand the Working Scientifically skills and begin to apply these independently.

· Appreciate the relevance of science in everyday life and its importance for the future of our planet.

· Are inspired by real scientists and see science as a possible future career path.

At Meltham Moor, children enjoy science and are confident to describe themselves as scientists. They leave our school with the knowledge, vocabulary and skills to thrive - and the awe and wonder that encourages them to do so.