Science | Bellfield Infant School

Science at Bellfield Infant School and Nursery

Science is the most powerful method we have for understanding our world. Science fosters a healthy curiosity in children about natural phenomena and events in the environment in which we live. Through the use of an exciting curriculum, children are exposed to a wide range of scientific knowledge. The children are able to make links with existing concepts, have the opportunity to develop their own ideas, assisting in gaining a greater understanding of the science of our world.

At Bellfield Infant School and Nursery, Science begins in EYFS through the use of the Early Years Framework. A child’s knowledge and understanding of science in EYFS is developed in the following ways;

· The area of learning; Understanding the World

· Fostering a child’s a curiosity

· Develop a child’s questioning and understanding of language

· Using continuous provision to allow children to follow their own lines of enquiry

Science is then taught in KS1 using the National Curriculum 2014. The 2014 national curriculum for science aims to ensure that all children:

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

· develop understanding of the nature, processes and methods of science through different types of science enquiries that help them to answer scientific questions about the world around them

· are equipped with the scientific skills required to understand the uses and implications of science, today and for the future. We understand that it is important for lessons to have a skills-based focus, and that the knowledge can be taught through this.

Intent

Our intention is to inspire and enthuse pupils to develop their own curiosity and to question the world around them. We aim for pupils to develop independence, exploration and to have hands on experience. Good teaching in science lights the fries of curiosity in pupils. This develops their love of learning and develop a deeper level of understanding of science-based issues that may affect their own lives and the future of the world.

Implementation

Curriculum

EYFS: We align our science activities with the EYFS framework, focusing on the “Understanding the World” area of learning. This includes exploring the natural world, observing changes, and discussing the environment.
National Curriculum: For Key Stage 1, we follow the national curriculum guidelines, ensuring that pupils cover essential scientific knowledge and skills. Topics include plants, animals, everyday materials, and seasonal changes.
Primary Knowledge Curriculum (PKC): All classes from Nursery – Year 2 use and follow PKC. This curriculum is carefully sequenced and builds on upon pupil’s prior knowledge. It has knowledge that is taught to be remembered and has small steps of learning.

Hands-On Learning:

Experiments and Investigations: Pupils engage in simple, age-appropriate experiments and investigations that are linked to their topic. These activities encourage them to ask questions, make predictions, and observe outcomes.
Outdoor Learning: We utilise our outdoor spaces for nature walks, gardening, and exploring local wildlife. This hands-on approach helps pupils connect with their environment and understand scientific concepts in a real-world context.

Encouraging Curiosity:

Questioning: Teachers model and encourage questioning, helping pupils to develop their inquiry skills. We create a classroom environment where curiosity is valued and nurtured.
Exploration: Pupils are given opportunities to explore materials, objects, and living things. We provide a variety of resources and tools to support their investigations. In EYFS we facilitate for pupils to be curious

Independence and Collaboration:

Independent Projects: Pupils are encouraged to undertake small, independent projects where they can explore a scientific topic of interest. This fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility for their learning.
Group Work: Collaborative activities and group projects help pupils develop teamwork skills and learn from their peers.

Integration with Other Subjects:

Cross-Curricular Links: We integrate science with other subjects such as literacy, mathematics, and art. For example, pupils might write about their scientific observations, measure and record data, or create drawings of their findings.

Assessment and Feedback:

Formative Assessment: Ongoing assessments through observations, discussions, and practical activities help teachers understand pupils’ progress and provide timely feedback.
Summative Assessment: At the end of each term, pupils’ understanding is assessed through simple quizzes, presentations, or project work.

Professional Development:

Teacher Training: Regular professional development sessions ensure that teachers are equipped with the latest pedagogical strategies and scientific knowledge to effectively teach science.

By implementing these strategies, we aim to create a stimulating and supportive environment where pupils can develop a lifelong love of science and a deeper understanding of the world around them.

Impact

The implementation of our science curriculum, aligned with the EYFS Framework and the National Curriculum 2014 has the following impact on our pupils;

· Fostering curiosity, enquiry, independence and a love of learning.

· Acquiring scientific knowledge and skills.

· Developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

· Making cross-curricular links.

Pupils then gain a deeper understanding of the world around them and are better prepared to address science-based issues that may affect their lives and the world around them. Our science curriculum not only enhances their academic achievement, but also fosters essential life skills, preparing them to be informed, curious and responsible citizens.

Documents


Please click on the image to view our Science Policy.

Science Learning Links

https://www.brainpop.com/science/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HcAmYGJrETo - Experiments to try at home!

https://www.stem.org.uk/resources/elibrary/resource/468235/starters-stem

https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/subjects/z6svr82

https://www.sciencekids.co.nz/space.html

https://sciencebob.com/

https://kids.nationalgeographic.com/

https://www.nasa.gov/kidsclub/index.html