Science

Intent

Science at Milverton is a practical and engaging subject that encourages children to explore, question and understand the world around them. Through hands-on investigations, observation and enquiry-based learning, pupils develop scientific knowledge and skills while fostering curiosity, creativity and critical thinking.

Throughout the primary years, children study key areas of science including biology, chemistry and physics. They learn about living things and their habitats, plants, animals including humans, materials, forces, light, sound, electricity, rocks, Earth and space, and states of matter. Pupils are encouraged to make predictions, carry out fair tests, collect and analyse data, and communicate their findings using scientific vocabulary.

The curriculum promotes the development of scientific enquiry skills, enabling children to ask questions, solve problems and draw evidence-based conclusions. Learning is designed to help pupils understand how science impacts everyday life and contributes to technological and environmental advancements.

By the end of primary school, pupils will have developed a secure foundation of scientific knowledge, an understanding of scientific methods, and a lifelong appreciation of the role science plays in understanding and improving our world

Implementation

A clear, progressive science curriculum is taught from Reception to Year 6, building pupils’ knowledge and understanding of biology, chemistry and physics over time.
Science lessons are planned to develop both substantive knowledge and disciplinary skills, enabling pupils to think and work like scientists.
Practical, hands-on investigations are embedded throughout the curriculum to promote curiosity, enquiry and deeper understanding.
Pupils are encouraged to ask questions, make predictions, observe carefully, collect data and draw evidence-based conclusions.
Scientific vocabulary is explicitly taught and revisited to ensure pupils can communicate their understanding confidently and accurately.
Learning is enriched through educational visits, visitors, outdoor learning opportunities and real-world scientific contexts.
Cross-curricular links are made where appropriate, helping pupils apply their scientific knowledge across a range of subjects.
Teachers use effective assessment strategies to identify misconceptions, monitor progress and adapt teaching to meet pupils' needs.
Science learning promotes environmental awareness and a sense of responsibility for sustainability and the natural world.
High expectations ensure that all pupils, regardless of background or ability, are supported and challenged to achieve success in science.
Opportunities for revision of facts and scientific understanding are built into lessons to ensure learning is embedded into the long-term memory.
Observed learning tasks and a range of quizzes enable teachers to check knowledge retention and plan future lessons.