Science at St Mary’s Hampton
At St Mary’s Hampton, we believe that science is an essential part of a rich and balanced curriculum. It has the power to inspire children to explore the world with curiosity, to think and work scientifically and to see themselves as scientists, both in the present and in the future.
Through science, pupils develop the knowledge, skills and understanding they need to navigate the world in which they live. Science supports pupils to ask and answer questions, think logically and creatively, solve problems and express ideas using specific and relevant vocabulary, while also developing curiosity and engaging with awe and wonder.
Our science curriculum meets the requirements of the National Curriculum for Science. It provides a clear and progressive structure, with the Key Stage 1 Curriculum building on the solid foundations of the Early Years Curriculum, and then progressing through to Key Stage 2, giving both the knowledge and the enquiry skills required for secondary school science. Throughout Early Years, Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2 concepts are revisited and reinforced so that learning becomes embedded over time.
In line with the National Curriculum for Science, at St Mary’s children learn the foundations for understanding the world through the specific disciplines of biology, chemistry and physics, though lessons are taught under the broad umbrella of science. Children are taught how science has changed our lives and is vital to the world’s future prosperity. They learn essential aspects of the knowledge, methods, processes and uses of science. Through building up a body of key foundational knowledge and concepts, they are encouraged to recognise the power of rational explanation and develop a sense of excitement and curiosity about natural phenomena. They are encouraged to understand how science can be used to explain what is occurring, predict how things will behave, and analyse causes.
How Science Is Taught
At St Mary’s Hampton, science is taught through a carefully sequenced and engaging curriculum with topics and strands running throughout the primary school years, namely
- Animals, including humans
- Plants
- Living things and their habitats
- Evolution and inheritance
- Rocks
- Materials and their properties
- States of matter
- Light
- Sound
- Forces
- Electricity
- Earth and space
Lessons provide opportunities for pupils to:
- Develop knowledge
- Develop vocabulary
- Develop enquiry skills
- Explore concepts
- Investigate phenomena
- Use mathematical skills in practical situations
Teaching places a strong emphasis on hands-on learning, with pupils encouraged to explore, experiment and apply their skills through both theoretical and practical activities. Concepts are introduced in a clear and age-appropriate way, supported by modelling, discussion and guided practice. The curriculum is inclusive and designed to support all learners, including pupils with SEND.
How Science Is Assessed
Assessment in science at St Mary’s Hampton is ongoing and formative, focusing on pupils’ progress in developing knowledge, skills and understanding.
Teachers assess learning through:
- Observation and discussion during practical activities
- Questioning and discussion to check and secure knowledge and conceptual understanding
- Pupils’ ability to ask their own questions, theorise, explain their thinking and improve their work
- Adapted assessment for children with SEND
Progress is measured by how well pupils develop their understanding of scientific concepts and their ability to apply skills independently. This approach ensures that assessment supports learning and recognises progress at every stage.