Our curriculum is based around the National Curriculum but tailored to suit the needs of our children. We aim to deliver the National Curriculum in a broad, balanced and enjoyable way, enabling all to achieve their personal best. The aim of the science curriculum is to promote a lifelong interest in science. We aim to show that science is ever present in our lives and helps us make informed decisions; from our nutritional choices, to road safety and the use of the latest technology.
Pupils of West Yarner/ Seale Hayne are offered a wide range of experiences to extend their understanding of themselves, and the world around them through the wide range of activities and opportunities in and outside the school, such as the school’s garden, forest school activities, day trips to Plymouth Marine Aquarium, Plymouth Hoe, Paington Zoo etc. In KS2 the curriculum is taught as one subject, teaching one of the areas of Science per term as it’s outlined in the curriculum overview. In KS3 Science is split into Chemistry, Biology and Physics.
Skills, knowledge and values are developed to prepare the children for the next stage of their life. We aim to promote resilience by helping children to realise that not every experiment works and everyone learns from their mistakes. We attempt to imitate the great inventors and thinkers, who did not give up on their beliefs. While working on experiments in small groups, our children are learning a range of social skills, which are necessary for their development. We embed scientific vocabulary through meaningful connections across subjects within engaging and memorable activities. We also use a range of differentiated questions to promote scientific enquiry and curiosity.
We take the practical approach to science where possible and believe that effective learning takes place when there is considerable emphasis on active involvement, opportunities to talk both imaginatively and expressively and to explain and clarify thinking.