Science

Science Curriculum Statement

Intent

At St Augustine’s, our science curriculum is designed to inspire pupils to become curious, reflective and responsible scientists who explore the world around them with wonder and critical thinking. We aim to develop pupils’ understanding of scientific concepts, enquiry and investigation, and to foster a lifelong interest in science and its role in society.

We intend to:

• Develop pupils’ knowledge and understanding of biology, chemistry and physics, in line with the National Curriculum.
• Encourage pupils to ask scientific questions, make predictions, and carry out investigations to explore ideas.
• Promote an understanding of the nature, processes and methods of science through practical enquiry and observation.
• Help pupils make connections between science and their everyday lives, including health, the environment, and technology.
• Support pupils in developing key scientific skills such as observing, measuring, recording, analysing and evaluating.
• Foster respect for living things and the planet, encouraging pupils to consider their role in caring for the world.

Our science curriculum supports the development of personal qualities such as curiosity, resilience, and responsibility, and is rooted in our Gospel Values and school motto:
“Unique and United in God’s Love. We let our light shine.”

Implementation

Science is taught through a progressive and sequenced curriculum that builds knowledge and skills across year groups. Units are carefully planned to ensure coverage of the National Curriculum and to provide opportunities for pupils to explore scientific concepts through hands-on learning.

Key features of our implementation include:

• Use of enquiry-based learning to promote investigation, questioning and discovery.
• Regular opportunities for practical experiments and observations, both in the classroom and outdoors.
• Use of scientific vocabulary and concepts introduced and revisited to deepen understanding.
• Cross-curricular links with subjects such as maths, geography and PSHE to enrich learning.
• Opportunities to explore real-world science, including environmental issues, health, and technological advances.

Teachers use high-quality resources and questioning to support pupils in developing their scientific thinking and applying their knowledge in meaningful ways.

Impact

Through our science curriculum, pupils at St Augustine’s will:

• Develop a secure understanding of scientific concepts and vocabulary.
• Be able to ask and answer scientific questions, carry out investigations, and draw conclusions.
• Demonstrate curiosity and engagement with the natural and physical world.
• Apply scientific skills confidently and responsibly.
• Be well-prepared for the next stage of their education, with a strong foundation in scientific knowledge and enquiry.

Assessment is carried out through ongoing formative assessment, pupil voice, and outcomes in books. Teachers track progress against key objectives, and subject leaders monitor provision through planning reviews, book studies, learning walks and pupil interviews.