Children learn a number of transferable skills through our primary science curriculum, many linked to The Solent School Values. They develop friendships and teamwork skills through practical investigations; they learn to respect themselves and to take responsibility for our planet through observation and discussion; and they learn about famous scientists and careers that allow them to have high aspirations.

Science has an important place in our weekly timetable and is explored each week through a mix of practical and thought-provoking activities. This enables children to ask and answer questions about things that intrigue them, leaving them wanting to find out more and discovering ways to do so. They have the opportunity to be scientists by using a range of special equipment to help them discover the world around them. Our science curriculum is planned so that each year, the children build upon their prior knowledge enabling them to maximise their potential.

At Solent Junior School each year group experiences science in a way that is unique and applicable to them. These experiences are related to the world around them as much as possible with a focus on concrete resources to build understanding. For example, during their light module, Year 3 track the apparent movement of the sun through the sky using shadows and chalk then come together to discuss their findings. This hands on, explorative learning leads to rich, pupil led conversations which further engages children in our exciting curriculum.

By the end of year 6, children will be able to follow practical scientific methods, processes and skills to plan scientific enquiries, take accurate measurements and record data in a variety of different forms. They will be able to use their prior knowledge to make predictions to set up fair and comparative tests. Additionally, they will be able to report and present their findings, including conclusions, in oral and written forms such as displays and presentations.

Each year, we participate in British Science Week. This subject specific week has an exciting theme each year that sparks interest amongst the Solent community. Previously, we have submitted children’s work into the national competition, where we have had the opportunity to showcase the budding scientists of The Solent Schools. This is something we participate in every year which gives children further opportunities to apply their prior knowledge and enables their curiosity to grow even further.