SCIENCE CURRICULUM

Our Vision for Science

At St Mary’s, our Christian values—Love, Equality, Hope and Forgiveness—shape an inclusive, engaging and purposeful science curriculum. We nurture children’s natural curiosity, encouraging them to question, explore and understand the world around them.

Our approach promotes awe, wonder and critical thinking. Through practical, enquiry-led learning, pupils develop the knowledge, vocabulary and skills they need to think and work like scientists. All learners, including those with SEND and disadvantaged pupils, are supported to build secure understanding and a genuine enthusiasm for discovery.

Intent

Our science curriculum aims to:

  • Build understanding of scientific concepts, processes and methods through structured enquiry.
  • Ensure equitable access for all learners through adaptive teaching and clear scaffolding.
  • Connect learning to real-life contexts, sustainability and future STEM pathways.
  • Provide strong foundations in biology, chemistry and physics.
  • Foster long-lasting curiosity through progressive knowledge and skills development.
  • Develop confidence in working scientifically, using equipment, testing ideas and forming evidence-based conclusions.
  • Enrich learning through our outdoor spaces and local environment.
  • Deliver a broad, balanced and fully accessible curriculum for every child.

Curriculum Structure

Our science curriculum follows a clear progression from EYFS to Year 6, supported by a blend of high-quality resources:

  • Oak National Academy – knowledge sequencing and progression
  • Enhancing Primary Science – knowledge-rich units and visual scaffolds
  • Twinkl – practical investigations and retrieval practice
  • PlanBee – enquiry-based lessons and cross-curricular links

This combination ensures coherence, depth and engaging scientific enquiry tailored to our school context.

Curriculum Implementation

Science is taught through enquiry-led lessons combining direct teaching with hands-on investigation. Teachers follow the St Mary’s Long-Term Map to ensure learning builds on prior knowledge.

EYFS: Exploration of the natural world through play, stories and observation.
KS1: Investigation of everyday phenomena, simple classification and basic tests.
Lower KS2: Structured enquiries into forces, sound, light, plants and habitats.
Upper KS2: Deeper understanding of abstract concepts such as evolution, electricity and Earth & space, supported by data analysis and systematic enquiry.

Typical lesson structure:

  1. Retrieval of prior learning and vocabulary
  2. Teacher modelling or demonstration
  3. Practical investigation or research
  4. Recording, measuring and interpreting results
  5. Reflecting and communicating findings using scientific language

Resources and Pedagogy

Teachers use a wide range of high-quality materials to support effective delivery and differentiation. Ongoing assessment—through questioning, quizzes and concept mapping—helps identify misconceptions and guide next steps.

Enrichment and Extension

We enhance the curriculum through memorable experiences, including:

  • British Science Week
  • Visits to The Catalyst Centre (Y3) and Manchester Science & Industry Museum (Y2)
  • EYFS hatching observations
  • Whole-school Wild Workshops

Curriculum Impact

We evaluate impact through:

  • Pupil voice demonstrating curiosity, confidence and accurate scientific vocabulary
  • Work samples showing progression in knowledge and skills
  • Assessment outcomes indicating secure understanding
  • Equitable progress for SEND and disadvantaged pupils
  • Leadership monitoring through lesson visits, book looks and planning reviews
  • Governor updates on strengths and areas for development

Further Information & Useful Documents 

For further information about our science curriculum, please contact our Science Lead, Mrs Hughes, via our school email address info@st-marys-cadishead.salford.sch.uk 

Useful Documents 

Science Whole-School Curriculum Map - showing when each topic is covered in each year group 

Knowledge Progression in Science

Working Scientifically Progression

Y1 - Y6 Knowledge Organisers

Science Leader: Mrs Deborah Hughes
Last reviewed: November 2025
Next review: September 2026