Science
At Whitchurch, we recognise the importance of science in every aspect of daily life and understand that it is vital for children to embrace the topic to enable them to become active and responsible global citizens. As one of the core subjects taught in our school, we give the teaching and learning of Science the prominence it deserves.
The scientific area of learning is concerned with increasing pupils’ knowledge and understanding of our world and with developing skills associated with science as a process of enquiry. Our approach to investigative learning will develop the natural curiosity and aspirations of the child, a sense of excitement about the universe and encourage respect for living organisms and the physical environment. As the children develop their understanding of mental and physical wellbeing, they will become lifelong learners.
We nurture the children through the National Curriculum providing ample opportunities for the children to explore, develop and achieve. We actively engage in a spiral curriculum where topics are linked to the class themes to provide a creative scheme of work. This is reflected in a balanced programme of study. The national requirements are mapped out on a long term plan (ensuring that prior knowledge is secure for each area of science and there is a clear progression which builds on prior experiences).
At Whitchurch, our Science teaching offers opportunities for children to:
- 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
- be equipped with the scientific knowledge required to understand the uses and implications of science, today and for the future;
- develop the essential scientific enquiry skills to deepen their scientific knowledge
- use a range of methods to communicate their scientific information and present it in a systematic, scientific manner, including ICT, diagrams, graphs and charts
- develop a respect for the materials and equipment they handle with regard to their own, and other children’s safety;
- develop an enthusiasm and enjoyment of scientific learning and discovery
- encompass outdoor learning to create meaningful experiences within their natural environment
- access a wider curriculum which provides many opportunities to apply and deepen children’s understanding of science
- develop confidence and motivation to continue to further cultivate their skills into the next stage of their education and life experiences
Science Leaders: Mrs Shah and Mr Jeans