Science

At Whyteleafe, we recognise the importance of high quality science teaching and learning from EYFS to Year 6. Our pupils are given the opportunity to learn about many aspects of science, in line with the National Curriculum. Additionally, children at Whyteleafe are able to develop their scientific enquiry skills and learn how these can be used to answer questions in science. Cross-curricular links are made where appropriate and from Year 1 onwards, science is taught in a dedicated period in the weekly timetable as a core subject.

At Whyteleafe, we encourage pupils to have an enquiring mind and apply their learning to everyday life.  Children will develop their knowledge and understanding in a range of topics, such as: animals including humans, forces, electricity, etc. By building on their prior knowledge, it helps children to embed their understanding and address misconceptions. At the end of a topic, children are given the opportunity to self assess their objectives for that topic. 

At Whyteleafe, we are embedding a practical science curriculum which supports children with developing their enquiry skills and the ability to work scientifically. We believe that children learn best when they are able to explore for themselves and strive to ensure that all children are given the opportunity to plan and carry out their own investigations. Children have the opportunity to explain their scientific understanding from their investigation and present their findings to their group/class.

Each year, we appoint 4-5 Science Leaders from Year 5. The role of a Science Leader is to support and organise Science Club, Science day/week and the Science Fair. The Science Leaders share their love and understanding of science through their role as well as supporting a range of children. Science leaders develop their scientific language and vocabulary as they have to carefully consider how to explain it to the younger children. 

Oracy is extremely important within the science curriculum.  Children are expected to use correct technical vocabulary related to their learning in science and are given numerous opportunities to work collaboratively and discuss topics and questions, present research and take part in the Science Fair.

Through rigorous assessment, we build on prior learning and assess knowledge from previous topics as well as current topics to ensure knowledge has been retained.

By the end of Year 6, a Whyteleafe child will have had hands on experience with practical elements of science.  They will have developed their scientific skills, knowledge and enquiry within all areas of the curriculum.