Science

Our science curriculum is aligned closely with the National Curriculum. It is progressive and well-sequenced, allowing for a systematic building of knowledge across year groups. Each unit of work begins with a broad, thought-provoking question intended to captivate our children’s interests. This structured approach engages learners from the outset, setting the stage for further exploration and understanding of scientific concepts.

To ensure a rich learning experience, we break down our broad, overarching questions into smaller, manageable inquiries. We prioritise a knowledge-rich curriculum, allowing our children to engage with factual content and scientific vocabulary, making links with their prior learning and building knowledge over time. In addition, we anticipate and plan for misconceptions to ensure our children develop a solid foundation in their learning.

Furthermore, we thread disciplinary skills progressively across the curriculum, ensuring each lesson is ‘hands on,’ developing the ‘Outwoods’ scientist’. Retrieval practice is integrated within our learning, allowing students to reinforce their knowledge over time. We have also carefully planned a variety of enquiry types across each year group’s curriculum, to ensure our children can investigate and explore their scientific questions in a variety of ways.

At Outwoods, we are committed to cultivating our children's science capital by introducing them to a range of influential scientists who have made significant contributions in various fields. This exposure not only broadens their understanding of the subject but also ignites a sense of ambition—one of our school values. Enrichment opportunities, such as STEM clubs and Science Week activities, are firm favourites within our school community, further promoting our children's enthusiasm for science.

In any science lesson, you will see children actively asking questions and engaging in discussions, demonstrating both awe and wonder. We are incredibly proud of our Science curriculum at Outwoods and the enthusiasm our children consistently demonstrate for their learning.