At Church Lench CE First School, we believe that science provides children with the knowledge, skills and curiosity to understand the world around them. Our science curriculum is designed to inspire a sense of wonder, encourage questioning and develop children's understanding of scientific concepts through practical, engaging and meaningful experiences.

Science is taught on a two-year rolling cycle, carefully planned to ensure full coverage of the National Curriculum whilst meeting the needs of our mixed-age classes. Units are sequenced to build knowledge progressively, enabling children to make connections between prior learning and new concepts. For example, where topics such as animals are revisited in different year groups, Year 4 content is taught before Year 5 content within the same cycle, ensuring that children have secure foundations on which to build more complex understanding.

Alongside scientific knowledge, we place a strong emphasis on the development of scientific enquiry skills. Teachers select the most appropriate enquiry type for each unit from observation over time, identifying and classifying, pattern seeking, research and fair testing. This enables children to work scientifically and understand how scientific knowledge is developed. For example, during a unit on plants, children may conduct investigations to determine the conditions required for healthy growth while also planting seeds and observing changes over time. Through these experiences, children learn to ask questions, make predictions, gather evidence and draw conclusions.

Our curriculum is rooted in practical, hands-on learning wherever possible, helping children to develop confidence, resilience and independence as young scientists. We encourage children to explore, investigate and communicate their findings using scientific vocabulary and reasoning.

Rooted in our Christian vision, "For with God nothing is impossible" (Luke 1:37), we encourage children to approach science with curiosity, perseverance and confidence. We aim to foster a belief that through questioning, investigation and determination, new discoveries can be made and challenges can be overcome. Our science curriculum nurtures awe and wonder in God's creation, encouraging children to appreciate the complexity, beauty and diversity of the natural world while developing respect for the environment and the responsibility we all share in caring for it. Through scientific enquiry, children learn that mistakes and unexpected results are valuable opportunities for learning, helping them to develop resilience and a growth mindset that reflects our school vision.

We also aim to broaden children's understanding of the role science plays in society by introducing them to a diverse range of significant scientists and innovators. These real-life examples help children see the relevance of science beyond the classroom and inspire future aspirations. For example, children learn about Mary Anning when studying rocks and fossils, alongside other scientists whose work links meaningfully to the topics being studied. By learning about their discoveries, challenges and achievements, children gain an appreciation of how scientific understanding develops over time and the impact it has on our world.

Through our science curriculum, we strive to develop curious, knowledgeable and reflective learners who are equipped with the scientific understanding and enquiry skills needed for their future education and everyday lives.