Science
Intent
Question • Investigate • Conclude
At St Joseph’s, our science curriculum is designed to ignite curiosity, excitement and a deep desire to question the world. We want all pupils to develop the confidence to ask thoughtful scientific questions and the skills to investigate natural phenomena with increasing independence.
Aligned with the National Curriculum purpose of study, we aim to provide pupils with the foundations for understanding the world through the key disciplines of biology, chemistry and physics. Our curriculum develops a secure body of scientific knowledge and conceptual understanding, encouraging pupils to recognise the power of rational explanation and to develop a sense of excitement and curiosity about natural phenomena.
We teach pupils how science enables us to explain what is happening, predict how things will behave, and analyse causes; all of which are key expectations of the National Curriculum. Pupils also learn to appreciate the impact of scientific discovery on their future lives, their nation, and the global community.
Implementation
Science is taught weekly, following a clear progression of knowledge and skills. Wherever possible, learning is grounded in practical, hands‑on experiences that allow pupils to develop their ability to work scientifically.
Our approach reflects the National Curriculum aim that all pupils should:
- develop an understanding of the nature, processes and methods of science through different types of scientific enquiries that help them to answer scientific questions about the world around them
- build a secure understanding of key blocks of knowledge and concepts before moving on, ensuring meaningful progression
- use accurate scientific vocabulary, apply mathematical skills (such as collecting, presenting and analysing data), and communicate findings clearly
Throughout their learning journey, pupils develop the core skills of:
- observing closely
- planning enquiries
- taking accurate measurements
- gathering, recording and interpreting data
- using evidence to justify conclusions
- evaluating methods and suggesting improvements
Scientific language and subject‑specific vocabulary are embedded within every unit of work and become increasingly sophisticated as pupils move through the school. Discussions, practical investigations and high‑quality resources support deeper understanding.
Our enquiry‑based approach ensures that learning remains meaningful, challenging and engaging, while enabling pupils to think critically, solve problems and apply their learning to real‑world contexts.
Impact
By the time pupils leave St Joseph’s, they will have developed secure scientific knowledge and conceptual understanding across the disciplines of biology, chemistry and physics: a key expectation of the National Curriculum. They will be equipped with the scientific understanding needed to recognise the uses and implications of science today and for the future, as outlined in national requirements
Pupils will be confident in working scientifically, using a range of enquiries to ask questions, observe closely, gather and analyse data, justify conclusions and evaluate the reliability of their methods and use these to answer scientific questions about the world around them.
Throughout their learning, pupils reflect on their progress through topic overviews, scientific discussions and ongoing feedback from their teacher. Teachers record attainment and progress termly, enabling leaders to monitor patterns, identify strengths and areas for development, and refine practice accordingly. This ensures that the science curriculum remains responsive, ambitious and aligned with the needs of all pupils.