Science

Curriculum Overview

Intent

At The William Hogarth School, we recognise how science impacts every aspect of daily life, and without science humankind would not have made progress throughout history. As one of the core subjects taught at primary level, we give the teaching and learning of science the prominence it deserves.

Our ‘backwards-planned’ curriculum is intended to drive excellent outcomes for all pupils by helping them to establish a powerful knowledge base, to prepare them for the transition to secondary school science. Our science curriculum develops the natural curiosity of each child no matter their demographic, encourages them to have respect for living organisms, and instil in pupils the importance of caring for the natural environment.

Implementation

At The William Hogarth School we have chosen to implement REACH ACADEMY’S Science Curriculum as the core of our curriculum because the content is rigorous, coherent and intelligently sequenced, building on pupils’ prior learning. 

In Key Stages 1 & 2, pupils work from expertly designed booklets which detail the specific knowledge pupils must acquire over each sequence of learning.  This ensures absolute clarity for all stakeholders on what needs to be learned.  Pupils benefit from explicit instruction and deliberate practice of the knowledge rich curriculum so that they can embed the key knowledge deeply and durably.  Opportunities to revisit and review learning are built into each science lesson; these include ongoing formative assessment and factual recall quizzes.  Dual coding on slides and in booklets supports all pupils in accessing our aspirational and inclusive science curriculum.

Key Stages 1 & 2 enjoy weekly Science lessons.  In Early Years, Science is taught explicitly within the Understanding the World aspect of the curriculum, as well as through opportunities that are provided through continuous provision.

Impact

Pupils have secure foundations for understanding the natural world and are well-equipped to tackle the challenges of secondary school Science. Pupils understand that science has changed our lives and it is vital to the world’s future prosperity.

The next steps for our science curriculum have taken on board pupil feedback so that we will include more opportunities for pupils to work practically, developing the skills associated with science as a process of enquiry.  This will include embedding investigations within the immediate, local environment so that pupils at The William Hogarth School learn through varied and first-hand experiences.