Science Vision Statement

At St Peter’s, we see science as a way of developing thinkers who are curious, reflective and confident in making sense of the world. We aim to ignite a lasting interest in how and why things happen, encouraging pupils to question, explore and refine their ideas through evidence. By nurturing a disciplined approach to thinking alongside a sense of curiosity and enquiry, we support children to grow into individuals who value knowledge, think critically and recognise the importance of science in shaping both their understanding and their future.

Subject Intent

Our science curriculum enables pupils to develop a deep and secure understanding of the world around them through the study of biology, chemistry and physics. Learning is carefully sequenced so that knowledge builds over time, with pupils revisiting and deepening key concepts- our ‘big ideas’ of science. These big ideas are deliberately mapped across the curriculum so that pupils make meaningful connections between prior and new learning, supporting long-term understanding.

Alongside this knowledge, pupils develop their understanding of how scientific knowledge is constructed through ‘working scientifically’. They are taught to ask questions, carry out purposeful practical enquiries, observe closely and use evidence to explain their thinking. Practical science sits at the heart of our curriculum and is carefully planned to deepen understanding of key concepts, rather than simply engage. Through this, pupils develop confidence in investigating, reasoning and thinking as scientists.

Assessment for learning is integral to our approach. Through regular opportunities to check understanding, teachers identify what pupils know and can do, as well as any misconceptions. This ensures that teaching is responsive, gaps in knowledge are addressed, and learning is secured before moving on.

We place a strong emphasis on the explicit teaching of scientific vocabulary, enabling pupils to communicate their ideas with clarity and precision. Planned opportunities to revisit and recall prior learning strengthen memory, support pupils in linking ideas and ensure that misconceptions are identified and addressed.

Our curriculum is carefully structured so that all pupils can access, understand and retain key knowledge. Learning is broken down and built up progressively, ensuring that all learners, regardless of starting point, can succeed and develop increasing independence and confidence.

Through our science curriculum, we aim to foster curiosity and a sense of wonder about the natural world, while helping pupils to understand how science applies to real-life contexts and contributes to the wider world. In doing so, pupils develop both the knowledge and the thinking skills needed to engage with the world as informed and reflective individuals.