Science

At Margaret McMillan Primary School we want our children to be naturally curious about the world around them. The children will be learning to learn by asking questions, planning and taking part in investigations to guide them into becoming enquiry-based learners. The science in our school is about developing children’s ideas and ways of working that enable them to make sense of the world in which they live. We want our children to develop an understanding of the uses and implications of Science, how it has changed and shaped our lives and how vital it is to the world’s future prosperity.

Scientific enquiry skills are embedded in each topic and scientific learning experiences are planned to inspire our children’s curiosity to know more about the world around them. The children study a wide range of purposeful, planned and well structured learning opportunities informed by the National Curriculum that are revisited and developed throughout their time at school. A number of topics are taught in Key Stage One and studied again in further detail throughout Key Stage Two. Thus allowing the children to grow in their understanding, building upon their prior knowledge and increasing their enthusiasm for the topics whilst embedding this substantive knowledge into the long-term memory. Prior learning, future learning and key vocabulary are clearly identified within our Progression of Skills document and Medium Term Plans.

Science teaching at Margaret McMillan Primary School involves adapting and extending the curriculum to match all pupils’ needs to ensure they are challenged and achieve success, regardless of their starting point. We will ensure that appropriate resources and support are provided to allow all children to access and engage with Science. Enrichment opportunities within school will ensure all our children have experiences to make links between their learning and the world in which we live. Science is taught as discrete units and lessons to ensure coverage in line with the National Curriculum requirements.