Science is a core subject at Kingsway Junior School and is taught with the clear intent of developing pupils’ scientific knowledge, conceptual understanding and curiosity about the world around them. We aim to ensure that all pupils are well prepared for the next stage of their education and are inspired to pursue science beyond primary school, including future study and potential careers in scientific fields. Science also contributes significantly to pupils’ understanding of the world and its importance in global development and prosperity.
The science curriculum is carefully sequenced in line with the National Curriculum. It is designed so that key substantive knowledge is revisited and built upon over time, enabling pupils to develop depth of understanding and long-term retention. Concepts are revisited in increasing complexity across year groups, ensuring clear progression. For example, in the topic of animals, including humans, pupils return to core concepts in each year group, with knowledge and understanding developing cumulatively throughout Key Stage 2.
Implementation is supported through the high-quality planning tool, Developing Experts. These resources ensure strong subject knowledge for staff and provide structured progression, effective planning, and opportunities for professional development. Pupils are exposed to a broad range of scientific knowledge and enquiry-based learning experiences that develop both substantive and disciplinary knowledge.
A strong emphasis is placed on the “Working Scientifically” strand, which underpins all scientific learning. Pupils are systematically taught the disciplinary knowledge required to work as scientists, including observing, predicting, planning and carrying out investigations, and drawing conclusions. These skills are carefully mapped to ensure progression within and across year groups. Pupils also learn about significant scientists linked to their areas of study, helping to deepen understanding and promote aspiration.
Impact is evidenced through pupils’ increasing scientific knowledge, vocabulary and ability to apply enquiry skills with growing independence and accuracy. Pupils demonstrate curiosity, ask increasingly relevant scientific questions, and are able to explain and reason about scientific phenomena using appropriate terminology. In addition, an annual Science Week further enhances engagement and supports wider enrichment of the curriculum through thematic scientific exploration.
