At Tanworth‑in‑Arden CofE Primary School, science is hands‑on, exploratory and rooted in curiosity. We encourage pupils to ask questions about the world around them, plan investigations, test their ideas and explain what they discover using scientific language. Our aim is for every child to see themselves as a scientist – confident, inquisitive and excited to find out how things work.

Intent:

Our science curriculum aims to develop pupils’ curiosity and sense of awe and wonder about the world in which they live. We want children to build strong scientific knowledge alongside the skills needed to think and work scientifically. By the time pupils leave Tanworth, they will be able to ask meaningful questions, make predictions, carry out fair tests, analyse findings and explain their ideas clearly.

Science at Tanworth prepares pupils not only for the next stage of their education, but also for life in an increasingly scientific and technological world. We aim to help children understand the impact of science on their everyday lives and their responsibility to care for the world around them.

Working Scientifically

Working scientifically is at the heart of science teaching across the school. Pupils are taught to:

• ask and develop their own questions
• make predictions based on prior knowledge
• plan and carry out investigations
• observe carefully and take measurements
• record results in a range of ways
• use scientific vocabulary to explain findings

These skills are developed progressively from the Early Years through to Year 6, so pupils become increasingly independent and confident in their approach to scientific enquiry.

Implementation:

Science is taught as a discrete subject across the school, with regular opportunities for practical, hands‑on learning. Lessons are carefully planned to build on prior knowledge and to ensure progression in both scientific understanding and enquiry skills.

Discussion and talk are valued in science lessons, allowing pupils to share ideas, question outcomes and deepen understanding. Where appropriate, science is linked with other areas of the curriculum, including mathematics, literacy and outdoor learning, helping children see science as part of the wider world rather than a stand‑alone subject.

In the Early Years, science is taught through the “Understanding the World” area of learning, where children explore, observe, compare and ask questions about their environment through purposeful play and exploration.

Science Learning on Display

Science learning is made visible and celebrated across the school. Displays, working walls and washing lines of books show how pupils develop scientific vocabulary, record observations and reflect on the outcomes of their investigations. These displays help pupils revisit prior learning, make connections and feel proud of their progress, while also allowing parents and visitors to see science learning developing over time.

Science in Action

Alongside written outcomes, pupils are regularly involved in practical investigations. Children measure, test, observe, predict and discuss their ideas, learning that results do not always match predictions and that this is an important part of scientific learning.

Through these experiences, pupils develop resilience, collaborative skills and confidence in explaining their thinking.

Enrichment and Wider Science Opportunities

Where possible, science learning is enriched through themed weeks, outdoor learning opportunities and links to the wider world. These experiences help pupils see the relevance of science beyond the classroom and inspire curiosity about future learning and careers in science.

Assessment and Progress

Pupils’ progress in science is assessed through observation, discussion, practical outcomes and written work. Teachers use assessment to identify misconceptions, build on strengths and adapt teaching where needed. As pupils move through the school, they demonstrate increasing independence, deeper understanding and greater confidence in working scientifically.

Scientific Vocabulary

Developing scientific vocabulary is a key focus in science lessons. Pupils are encouraged to use accurate language when describing observations, processes and conclusions. Vocabulary is introduced, revisited and displayed in classrooms so that pupils can confidently explain their ideas both verbally and in writing.