Science: Intent, Implementation and Impact

Intent

At Smallthorne Primary Academy, we recognise the importance of Science in every aspect of daily life. Our Science curriculum aims to foster a lifelong love and passion for the subject, inspiring curiosity about the world around us.

We want our children to understand the world through scientific exploration and enquiry. To achieve this, we give the teaching and learning of Science the prominence it deserves within our curriculum.

Our curriculum enables children to become enquiry-based learners who collaborate through researching, investigating, and evaluating experiences. We aim to develop a broad scientific vocabulary, teaching and revisiting key terminology as topics are explored across year groups and key stages.

We deliver a carefully planned and progressive curriculum that builds knowledge year by year and covers the three scientific disciplines of Biology, Physics, and Chemistry. Our curriculum encourages respect for living organisms and the physical environment, preparing pupils for an ever-changing modern world.

Science at Smallthorne is rooted in our Character and Arts Curriculum and the High Quality and Inclusive Education Framework, developing not only scientific understanding but also the character traits of curiosity, perseverance, teamwork, and reflection. We want every child to see themselves as a scientist — confident, creative, and responsible in exploring the world around them.

Our children learn through exploration, enthusiasm, and excitement. They are encouraged to ask questions, think critically, and become practical, hands-on learners.

Implementation

Our long-term Science curriculum aims to create a positive attitude towards the subject and reinforce the belief that all children are capable of achieving high standards in Science.

Science is delivered through a carefully planned, progressive curriculum from EYFS to Year 6, ensuring comprehensive coverage of Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. Curriculum coverage is monitored by the Science Lead to ensure that all teachers are aware of prior learning and the next steps in pupils’ progression.

Lessons are structured weekly to allow for deep exploration of topics, with a strong emphasis on embedding Character of Arts, Sustainability, and Enterprise Science skills. Children are encouraged to take ownership of their learning, work collaboratively, and reflect on their discoveries — developing resilience and confidence through hands-on enquiry.

Enquiry-based learning is at the heart of our approach, encouraging pupils to question, predict, and conduct investigations through practical work. Cross-curricular links strengthen understanding by integrating Mathematics for data handling and English for scientific explanation and report writing. Where applicable, Science learning is connected to current Character and Arts topics, making it more relevant and meaningful.

Inclusivity is central to implementation. Lessons are adapted so that every learner, including those with SEND and EAL, can access the curriculum through visual supports, practical exploration, and scaffolded questioning. Teachers use a range of strategies to ensure equitable participation and challenge for all pupils.

Assessment is embedded throughout our Science curriculum. Teachers use formative assessment strategies such as questioning, observations, and practical evaluations, alongside summative assessments carried out against the Character of Arts, Sustainability, and Enterprise Science skills. Regular work scrutiny and pupil voice activities ensure progression, engagement, and consistency across the school.

Impact

At Smallthorne Primary Academy, we believe that Science is for everyone. We want our children to develop their science capital and grow into the scientists of the future.

Our approach to Science teaching ensures that learning is fun, engaging, and high-quality, providing children with strong foundations for understanding the world — foundations they will carry with them beyond primary education.

Through Science, our pupils develop:

• Curiosity and Perseverance – asking questions, exploring ideas, and continuing to seek answers even when challenges arise.
• Teamwork and Collaboration – working together respectfully to plan and conduct investigations, share findings, and build confidence.
• Reflection and Responsibility – considering the impact of scientific discoveries on society and the environment.

The impact of our Science curriculum is measured through:

• The majority of pupils achieving age-related expectations in Science by the end of each year.
• Children who can think independently and raise questions about scientific processes.
• Pupils who draw on prior knowledge, linking learning across topics and disciplines.
• Confident and competent young scientists who can plan and carry out investigations effectively.
• High-quality work in topic books and across the curriculum, demonstrating secure understanding and accurate use of vocabulary.
• Pupils who care about the natural world, applying their learning to real-life contexts with empathy and respect.