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Science

Intent

At Oakley School, we aim to inspire every child to be curious about the world around them and excited to explore how things work. Our science curriculum provides strong foundations in understanding the natural and physical world, enabling pupils to make sense of what they see, hear and experience in their everyday lives.

Children are taught essential scientific knowledge, vocabulary and enquiry skills, and are encouraged to ask questions, make predictions, investigate ideas and explain their thinking clearly. We want pupils to understand that science helps us to explain, predict and solve problems, and to recognise how scientific understanding shapes our lives — now and in the future.

By making meaningful links across the curriculum and to real-life scientific discoveries and applications, we aim to build pupils’ science capital, helping them to see that science is relevant, exciting, accessible and open to everyone.

Implementation

Science is taught through regular, carefully planned lessons that ensure clear progression in both knowledge and scientific enquiry skills.

Across the school, we ensure that:

  • In EYFS and KS1, science is taught through a balanced approach of direct teaching and play-based exploration

  • Learning follows the National Curriculum and builds systematically on prior knowledge

  • “Working scientifically” is embedded within every unit of learning

  • Pupils carry out a wide range of enquiries, including observing, classifying, testing, researching and exploring patterns

  • Enquiries are often open-ended and child-led, encouraging independence, curiosity and ownership of learning

  • Scientific vocabulary is explicitly taught and used accurately in speaking and writing

  • Misconceptions are identified and addressed through skilled questioning and discussion

  • Strong cross-curricular links are made with subjects such as mathematics and geography

  • Trips, visitors, workshops and events such as Science Week enrich learning and develop real-world understanding.

 

Impact

By the time pupils leave Oakley School, they will understand the importance and relevance of science in the world around them and will be confident, curious and enthusiastic learners.

They will have a secure grasp of key scientific concepts, use scientific vocabulary accurately to explain their thinking, and demonstrate strong enquiry and investigation skills. Pupils will be able to ask purposeful questions, plan investigations, evaluate results and draw reasoned conclusions, preparing them well for the next stage of their scientific education.

Most importantly, children will leave Oakley School with a lifelong curiosity about the world and the belief that science is something they can take part in, enjoy and succeed in.