Acorn Principle Posters Y1-6{SECTION_MENU}
Science
‘I am among those who think Science has great beauty’
Marie Curie
At William Shrewsbury Primary School, we believe science is a subject of curiosity, discovery and understanding of the world. Our science curriculum is designed to develop pupils’ knowledge, skills, confidence and aspiration, enabling all children to see themselves as capable scientists.
Science is taught weekly and is given equal importance alongside English and mathematics. Through high-quality teaching, practical experiences and enquiry-based learning, pupils build a deep and secure understanding of scientific concepts while developing essential investigative skills.
Acorn Principle Posters Year 1 - 6
The Science Curriculum
Our Intent
Our science curriculum aims to:
- Develop a deep working knowledge of scientific concepts across biology, chemistry and physics
- Equip pupils with the disciplinary skills needed to work scientifically, including questioning, investigating, analysing and evaluating
- Foster curiosity, resilience and confidence, encouraging pupils to ask their own questions and explore ideas independently
- Enable pupils to apply scientific learning to real-life contexts, helping them understand the world around them
- Develop critical thinking, collaboration and communication through discussion, debate and teamwork
- Promote equity and inclusion, ensuring all pupils access a broad, ambitious science curriculum
- Inspire pupils to consider future pathways and careers in science
Our curriculum is underpinned by the values of Care, Respect, Achieve and Equity, ensuring pupils feel safe, supported and challenged to achieve their best.
Implementation
Science is taught through carefully sequenced units that build progressively on prior knowledge and skills. Learning is structured to ensure pupils develop both substantive knowledge (key facts and concepts) and disciplinary knowledge (how science works).
Teaching and Learning
- Lessons begin with clear learning intentions for both knowledge and skills
- Pupils engage in a range of enquiry approaches, including observation, research, fair testing, pattern seeking and problem solving
- Practical, hands-on learning is central, allowing pupils to learn through doing
- Teachers create a safe, supportive environment where mistakes are valued as part of learning
- Vocabulary is explicitly taught and revisited through retrieval practice, knowledge mats and classroom displays
- Cross-curricular links are made where appropriate, including computing and real-world applications
Assessment
Assessment in science is ongoing and formative, enabling teachers to identify misconceptions and adapt teaching. A range of strategies are used, including:
- Questioning and discussions
- Retrieval activities and quizzes
- Observations during practical work
- End-of-unit checks to ensure key knowledge is secure
- Concept Cartoons
This ensures pupils build long-term understanding and make strong progress over time.
Enrichment
Science learning is enriched through:
- Annual Science Week
- Outdoor learning opportunities
- Educational visits and community links
- Whole-school competitions and assemblies
- Exposure to scientists and science-related careers
These experiences help pupils build science capital and see the relevance of science beyond the classroom.
Impact
As a result of our science curriculum:
- Pupils develop a positive attitude towards science, showing curiosity, confidence and resilience
- Children can ask questions, plan investigations and explain ideas using appropriate scientific vocabulary
- Pupils work collaboratively and respectfully, engaging in discussion and debate using evidence to support ideas
- Children make good progress in both scientific knowledge and enquiry skills, in line with national expectations
- Pupils apply scientific understanding to real-life situations and the wider world
- All pupils, regardless of background or ability, achieve well and are prepared for the next stage of their education
Science at William Shrewsbury Primary School is inclusive, ambitious and engaging, helping every child to develop as a curious learner, critical thinker and confident scientist.
The 5 Enquiry Approaches
The Skills Wheel
Concept Cartoon Example:
Science Week
Science capital is continuously built upon in every lesson - learning always links to the ‘bigger picture’ relating Science to real life and potential future career opportunities. Every pupil has the opportunity to be involved in planting, outdoor learning and some pupils have links with local farms and high schools.
Science Week is also celebrated every year, and typically links to the national theme.
This consists of:
- Additional Science lessons (during that week)
- A whole school competition, linked to the national theme
- A Science quiz
- An investigation (with a focus on an enquiry approach)
- A celebration assembly
- A wall display of the Science learning during the week
This year...
British-Science-Week-2026-Early-Years-activity-pack.pdf
British-Science-Week-2026-Primary-activity-pack.pdf
Useful Websites
The Children's University of Manchester
Oak Academy EYFS Understanding the World