Science

Our Science Curriculum.

At Southbury Primary School, we want every child to develop a sense of wonder about the world around them. Science encourages children to be curious, ask questions, investigate ideas and discover how things work. Through our science curriculum, we aim to nurture enthusiastic, knowledgeable and thoughtful young scientists who are confident in exploring the world and explaining what they discover.

Children develop their knowledge and understanding of biology, chemistry and physics, learning about living things, materials, forces, light, sound, electricity, the human body, space and the natural world. As they progress through the school, they build on what they already know, encounter new ideas and make connections that deepen their understanding.

We want children not only to learn scientific facts, but also to understand how scientific knowledge is developed and how science helps us make sense of the world we live in.

Building Scientific Knowledge Over Time.

Our science curriculum is carefully planned to ensure that knowledge and skills develop progressively from the Early Years through to Year 6. Children revisit important ideas, build on previous learning and develop increasingly detailed explanations of the world around them.

Our planning is supported by the Twinkl Science scheme of work, which helps us organise learning and ensure that children encounter a broad range of scientific concepts and experiences. Alongside developing subject knowledge, we place a strong emphasis on scientific vocabulary, helping children explain their ideas clearly and accurately.

As children move through Southbury, we want them to become increasingly confident in applying what they know, recognising patterns, making connections and using scientific knowledge to explain what they observe.

Thinking and Working Scientifically.

Science is about much more than learning facts. Children need opportunities to explore ideas, test predictions and find things out for themselves.

Through practical experiences and scientific enquiry, children learn to:

Ask questions about the world around them and suggest ways to investigate them.
Observe carefully, identify patterns and make predictions.
Plan and carry out investigations, choosing appropriate equipment and methods.
Take measurements, gather evidence and record their findings.
Use evidence to explain results, draw conclusions and consider whether their predictions were correct.
Communicate their ideas using scientific vocabulary, diagrams, tables and other appropriate ways of presenting information.

These skills develop over time, enabling children to become more independent and systematic in their approach. We encourage children to be curious, think critically and recognise that scientific explanations should be supported by evidence.

Science in the World Around Us.

Science helps children understand themselves, their environment and the wider world. We encourage them to connect their learning to everyday experiences, consider how scientific discoveries influence our lives and recognise the importance of science in addressing real-world questions and challenges.

From understanding how our bodies work to exploring forces, electricity, habitats and space, children are encouraged to look beyond the classroom, notice the science around them and develop an interest in the world they are part of.

We want every child to see themselves as capable of scientific thinking, regardless of their starting point. Through accessible practical experiences, careful teaching and appropriate challenge, we aim to ensure that all children can participate, develop their understanding and experience the excitement of discovery.

The Southbury Scientist.

By the time children leave Southbury, we want them to be curious and knowledgeable young scientists who ask thoughtful questions, investigate ideas and use evidence to explain their thinking.

We want our children to approach new challenges with open minds, confidence and determination, understanding that asking questions, testing ideas and learning from results are essential parts of scientific discovery.