Intent:

At Crawley Ridge Junior School, our Science curriculum aims to develop pupils’ natural curiosity, sense of wonder and excitement about the world around them. We encourage pupils to ask thoughtful questions and seek answers through scientific enquiry, practical investigation and research.

Our intent is to develop confident, inquisitive scientists who develop secure scientific knowledge alongside key enquiry skills. Pupils are supported to think critically, use accurate scientific language and understand how science influences everyday life, both now and in the future.

Implementation

Science is taught in line with the National Curriculum, ensuring pupils develop a secure understanding of biology, chemistry and physics. Teaching is designed to embed scientific knowledge while giving pupils regular opportunities to work scientifically.

Where possible, learning is delivered through observation, experimentation and investigation. Pupils are taught to:

• Ask scientific questions and form hypotheses
• Plan and carry out investigations
• Measure, record and present data
• Identify patterns, anomalies and relationships
• Analyse results and draw conclusions

Across all units, pupils develop and apply subject‑specific scientific vocabulary and use mathematical skills to support data collection and analysis. Key knowledge is clearly identified within each unit and revisited to support retention and progression as pupils move through the school.

The curriculum promotes a safe and supportive learning environment where pupils are confident to explore ideas, test theories and learn from mistakes.

Impact

Our extensive school grounds, including the environmental pond area and Forest School, play an important role in enriching scientific learning. These environments support pupils’ understanding of seasonal change, living things and environmental responsibility, helping them develop a genuine appreciation of the natural world and the impact humans can have upon it.

As a result of our Science curriculum, pupils:

• Know more, remember more and understand more about scientific concepts
• Are confident to question, discuss and explain scientific ideas
• Understand how scientific knowledge has evolved through the work of scientists
• Recognise the role science plays in shaping the world and future developments

Assessment in Science is ongoing and used to inform teaching and learning. Teachers assess pupils’ understanding through observation, questioning, discussion and practical outcomes during lessons. Written work, investigations and recorded data provide evidence of pupils’ developing knowledge and enquiry skills. Pupil voice is used to assess confidence, understanding and use of scientific vocabulary. End‑of‑unit assessments and teacher judgements support monitoring of progress and ensure consistency across the school.

Pupils leave Crawley Ridge Junior School as curious, informed and responsible scientists with the skills and confidence to continue their scientific learning beyond primary school.