At St Mary’s, we aim to inspire children to be curious, enthusiastic and confident scientists who enjoy exploring the world around them. We want every child to develop a strong understanding of scientific knowledge alongside the skills needed to ask questions, investigate problems and make discoveries.
We use the White Rose Science scheme to support our delivery of the National Curriculum, ensuring clear progression in both scientific knowledge and working scientifically skills throughout the school. Practical, hands-on learning is at the heart of our approach, giving children regular opportunities to explore ideas, investigate and learn through first-hand experiences.
We use Focus 4 TAPS investigations to develop and assess children’s working scientifically skills, providing opportunities for pupils to plan, carry out and review investigations. Our classroom science working walls display key vocabulary, learning and the Working Scientifically Wheel, helping children recognise and apply their scientific skills across different topics.
We encourage children to share their enthusiasm for science beyond the classroom. Our pupil-selected Science Ambassadors help shape science activities and contribute ideas to our weekly Science Club. Through our monthly Science at Home investigations, we encourage families to explore science together and strengthen the connection between home and school.
Celebrating our science achievements
In 2024, St Mary’s achieved the Primary Science Quality Mark (PSQM), recognising our commitment to developing high-quality science teaching and learning. We are now working towards the PSQM Gilt award, continuing to strengthen our curriculum, assessment and opportunities for scientific enquiry.
Our Science Lead, Mrs Campbell, has achieved ASE Science Teacher accreditation following completion of the Science Teacher Champion Programme at the University of Manchester, as part of the SEERIH initiative. She has also spoken at science network meetings, sharing research, experiences and effective practice to support and promote high-quality primary science teaching.
At St Mary’s, we are committed to continually improving our science provision and providing engaging opportunities for every child to succeed. We want our young scientists to leave us with a lasting curiosity about the world, the confidence to ask questions and the skills to investigate, explore and discover.
Our science curriculum overviews, progression documents and further information can be found below.
White Rose Programme of Study
Working Scientifically Wheel
At St Mary’s, our focus this year is on making our children use skills within Science such as reporting, hypothesising and concluding. We do this by using a Working Scientifically wheel in classes. When investigating, children are encouraged to think about which skill they are using in the lesson and work on that skill.
St Mary’s Science Ambassadors
Our Science Ambassadors from across Key Stage Two meet on a regular basis to build on their love of Science. They have represented the school on many occasions including the Great Science Share.
