Science

"Science is the process that takes us from confusion to understanding” – Brian Greene

Science Lead – Mr Joe Atherton

At Berrycoombe School our science curriculum ensures that all pupils develop a secure understanding of scientific knowledge, a curiosity about the world around them, and the ability to think and work scientifically.

Through a well‑sequenced and progressive curriculum, pupils will:

• Develop foundational scientific knowledge across biology, chemistry and physics that builds coherently from Early Years to Year 6
• Acquire the skills needed to observe, question, investigate and analyse the world scientifically
• Use accurate scientific vocabulary to explain phenomena and communicate ideas
• Understand the relevance of science in everyday life, the environment, and future careers
• Experience success and enjoyment in science, fostering confidence, resilience and curiosity

The curriculum is designed to be ambitious and inclusive, supporting all learners, including those with SEND, while providing appropriate challenge to deepen understanding.

Implementation

Science at Berrycoombe School is taught through a carefully sequenced curriculum, aligned with the National Curriculum, ensuring progression in both knowledge and working scientifically skills.

Curriculum Design and Sequencing

• Science units are logically ordered so that key concepts are revisited and built upon over time
• Knowledge is broken down into small, manageable steps, ensuring pupils can confidently recall and apply learning
• Connections are intentionally made between previous learning and new content

Teaching and Learning

• Lessons are hands‑on, practical and enquiry‑based, allowing pupils to learn through first‑hand exploration
• Teachers use clear explanations, modelling and questioning to deepen understanding
• Scientific vocabulary is explicitly taught and revisited regularly
• Working scientifically skills are embedded within each unit, not taught in isolation

Assessment and Feedback

• Ongoing formative assessment is used to identify misconceptions and inform teaching
• Retrieval activities support long‑term memory and knowledge retention
• Outcomes of investigations and discussions are used to assess understanding rather than over‑reliance on written tasks

Inclusion and Support

• Lessons are adapted to ensure access for all pupils
• Practical approaches, visual aids and structured support enable pupils with SEND to succeed
• Challenge is provided through deeper questioning, reasoning and open‑ended investigation for higher‑attaining pupils