Science
At Totley All Saints, we aim for all pupils to be able to understand and apply the fundamental principles and concepts of science, so that they can begin to make sense of their community and the wider world through the disciplines of biology, physics and chemistry. We want them to be excited and curious about the world around them, so that they feel inspired to think about science in a meaningful and responsible way throughout their lives. We endeavour to support and nurture all pupils to appreciate how science has changed our lives, and how it is vital to the world's future development and prosperity.
The science curriculum at TAS is aspirational, allowing pupils to investigate scientific concepts for themselves using a series of carefully structured enquiry questions for each unit of learning. Working scientifically is at its heart, enabling them to deepen understanding of what they have learnt. Our long term plan is blocked into discrete units in-line with National Curriculum expectations. It builds on prior knowledge and reflects the seasons and resources available within and around our school, including our woodland area and pond. During lessons, pupils are encouraged to use practical resources wherever possible. In groups or with talk partners, they orally rehearse ideas using the correct scientific vocabulary and carefully designed knowledge notes to structure their thinking. All teaching is adapted and scaffolded to suit pupils' individual needs. Learning is broken down into small steps and regularly revisited to ensure that all pupils are supported to reach their full potential. Opportunities to engage with the community and explore science in industry are taken wherever possible, to help pupils develop into confident scientists.
Our curriculum is research led and provides the building blocks needed to develop the necessary skills and knowledge, whilst promoting excellent behaviour, attitudes to learning and British values. As well as academic performance, we recognise the importance of placing mental wellbeing and the need for a healthy lifestyle at the forefront of its design. It is underpinned with heavy emphasis on SMSC development and our Christian vision, whilst also building character and readiness for pupils' future education and life beyond.
Working scientifically progression of skills
