Science
Intent
At Manor Drive Primary Academy, our science curriculum is designed to ignite curiosity and foster a passion for learning. We are committed to equipping our pupils with the essential knowledge, skills, and confidence to experiment, innovate, and work scientifically. Our goal is to provide a high-quality science education that lays strong foundations for understanding the importance of science in the world around them.
We aim for pupils to appreciate how scientific advancements have transformed lives and recognise that science is vital for their future. Through a carefully structured curriculum, we provide purposeful sequences of learning that ensure each lesson builds on clear, deliberate knowledge and vocabulary. This empowers our pupils to develop a deep and lasting understanding of scientific concepts, preparing them to engage with and contribute to the ever-evolving world of science.
Our aim is to empower pupils to:
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Spark curiosity and exploration by encouraging them to ask questions and nurture a sense of wonder about the world.
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Cultivate scientific thinking by helping pupils think critically and logically through observation, enquiry, and drawing conclusions.
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Grasp fundamental scientific principles by introducing key concepts from biology, chemistry, and physics.
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Develop practical and investigative skills through hands-on experiments and scientific investigations.
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Connect science to everyday life by helping pupils recognise the relevance of science in their daily experiences.
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Inspire a lifelong interest in science by providing real-world opportunities and engaging experiences.
Implementation
At Manor Drive Primary Academy, we are committed to maintaining high standards of teaching and learning in science by implementing a progressive curriculum across the school, which is delivered through enquiry-based learning.
We follow the CUSP Science scheme of work, which is infused in evidence-based practices and enriched with strategies for spaced retrieval to ensure the long-term retention of key knowledge. Our approach aligns with the ambitious National Curriculum, placing a strong emphasis on knowledge, vocabulary, and scientific enquiry at the core of the design and practices of our science curriculum.
We aim to deepen pupils' understanding of the nature, processes, and methods of science by providing them with diverse opportunities for scientific enquiry and outdoor learning. These experiences are designed to help pupils explore and answer scientific questions, fostering a greater understanding of the world around them.
Key features of our implementation include:
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Holistic Approach: Science is used not only as a subject to learn but also as a tool for developing curiosity and wonder about the world around them.
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Supportive Resources: Staff are supported by CUSP, which ensures high-quality teaching with carefully sequenced lessons that deepen understanding of key concepts and maximise pupil potential.
Each module contains:
- Tier 2 and Tier 3 vocabulary progression from Y1 – Y6
- Dual-coded knowledge organisers
- Coherent sequence of learning
- Cumulative quizzes
- Knowledge notes for each lesson
- High quality teaching images and diagrams
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Skill Development: Pupils build a broad range of scientific skills with clear progression. Our curriculum balances factual knowledge with experiential learning, fostering self-awareness and resilience.
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Curriculum Structure: Science is taught weekly throughout the year with 2 half-term blocks structured to re-visit previous learning studies, allowing children to consolidate knowledge and skills. Each unit focusses on specific knowledge and skills and that ensures pupils engage with a variety of investigations and approaches across all key stages.
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Skill Application: Pupils develop and refine their knowledge and skills through the cross-curriculum by exploring specific aspects of science within other subjects. For example, the use of materials in art and design & technology.
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Showcasing Work: Experiments and investigations are displayed in year group displays around the school and in our ‘Creation Station’, where investigation and experimental science lessons are taught, celebrating achievements and inspiring the school community.
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Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS): In Early Years, science is integrated into the curriculum through the natural world, providing varied opportunities for pupils to explore and ask questions about their own environment, as well as exploring seasonal changes and learning about animals.
Assessment
At Manor Drive Primary Academy, we use a range of formative assessment strategies to monitor and support pupils' progress in science. Regular questioning and vocabulary checks are embedded into daily lessons to gauge pupils' understanding and reinforce key concepts.
At the end of each unit, pupils complete quizzes designed to assess their retention and understanding of the knowledge taught. These assessments allow us to identify areas of strength and any gaps in learning, ensuring that all pupils are supported in consolidating their scientific knowledge. This approach helps inform future planning and provides a clear picture of each child’s scientific development.
Impact
At Manor Drive Primary Academy, our science curriculum has a lasting and meaningful impact on our pupils. Through a carefully sequenced and engaging approach, we inspire a lifelong love of science and equip pupils with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in an ever-changing world.
Our pupils leave primary school with a deep and lasting understanding of scientific concepts across biology, chemistry, and physics. They are confident in their ability to think critically, ask questions, and approach problems scientifically. Our curriculum fosters curiosity and scientific enquiry, allowing pupils to develop essential skills such as observation, investigation, and problem-solving.
The purposeful progression of knowledge ensures that pupils retain and build on key concepts, with each lesson carefully designed to reinforce vocabulary and scientific thinking. As a result, pupils not only gain academic knowledge but also appreciate how science influences their everyday lives and contributes to their future.
Our pupils gain an understanding of the importance of science in their own lives and in the wider world. By showcasing their work through year group displays and in our ‘Creation Station,’ pupils take pride in their achievements and inspire the wider school community with their discoveries. In addition, they develop practical and investigative skills, learn to work collaboratively, and are encouraged to approach challenges with resilience and confidence.
Overall, our science curriculum at Manor Drive Primary Academy nurtures curious, confident, and knowledgeable learners who are prepared to actively engage with and contribute to the world of science.