science

Intent

At Phoenix Infant School, we aim to inspire children to be curious and inquisitive learners, developing a strong understanding of the world around them through science.

Through adaptations of the Kapow Primary Science curriculum, children develop scientific knowledge and skills, alongside the ability to ask questions, explore and investigate. We aim to build scientific literacy, enabling children to understand key concepts and use appropriate vocabulary to explain their thinking.

In EYFS, science is taught through Understanding the World, where children explore the natural world through observation, play and hands-on experiences, developing early enquiry skills and curiosity.

Across the school, we support children to develop knowledge, understanding and vocabulary, helping them to make sense of scientific ideas and processes and begin to think like scientists.

Implementation

Science is taught adapting the Kapow Primary scheme, ensuring a well-sequenced and progressive curriculum that builds knowledge over time.

In EYFS, children learn through play-based and practical experiences, including exploring animals, plants, seasonal changes and the natural world around them. These experiences support children in observing, questioning and talking about what they see.

In Key Stage 1, learning is structured through key areas including:

• Plants and animals
• Materials
• Seasonal changes
• Living things and their habitats

Children develop their understanding through practical enquiry and investigation, including:

• Asking simple questions
• Observing closely and using simple equipment
• Performing simple tests
• Identifying and classifying
• Gathering and recording data

Teaching is designed to build knowledge and skills progressively, with a clear focus on working scientifically alongside subject knowledge. A strong emphasis is placed on developing subject-specific vocabulary, enabling children to communicate their ideas clearly.

 

Impact

Children leave Phoenix Infant School as curious and confident learners who:

• Understand key scientific concepts about the natural world, materials and living things
• Can ask questions and carry out simple investigations
• Use appropriate scientific vocabulary to explain their ideas
• Recognise patterns, make observations and begin to draw conclusions

In EYFS, children develop early scientific understanding by exploring and observing the world around them, preparing them for Key Stage 1 learning.

Ongoing assessment ensures children know more, remember more and can do more, and are well prepared for the next stage of their scientific learning.

For further information, please contact Science Lead, Miss E. Towers, on 01753 521888 or post@phoenixinfants.uk.