Science
The Primary School Quality Mark programme ensures effective leadership of science, enables schools to work together to share good practice and is supported by professional development led by local experts. It encourages teacher autonomy and innovation while at the same time offering a clear framework for development in science subject leadership, teaching and learning. Schools that achieve PSQM demonstrate commitment and expertise in science leadership, teaching and learning.
The Primary Science Quality Mark is led by the University of Hertfordshire, Enterprise and Business Development in collaboration with the Primary Science Teaching Trust.
Associate Professor Jane Turner, PSQM National Director said: “There was never a more important time for primary children to have a high-quality science education. The Coronavirus Pandemic has made everyone aware of the impact of science on our daily lives. Primary schools have an important role to ensure that children understand how science works and keeps us healthy and safe. Schools that have achieved a Primary Science Quality Mark have demonstrated a significant commitment to science teaching and learning, even at this challenging time for schools. The profile and quality of science in each awarded school is very high. Children are engaging with great science both in and outside the classroom, developing positive attitudes towards science as well as secure scientific understanding and skills. Science subject leaders, their colleagues, head teachers, children, parents and governors should be very proud.”THE WHARTON'S SCIENCE VISION:
At The Whartons our vision is through working practically in different settings and learning a rich scientific vocabulary all children will be scientifically literate and able to ask questions to help them understand more about the world around them building on prior knowledge.
Intent, Implementation and Impact
INTENT
The Whartons Primary School teaches the national curriculum based on the spirit of enquiry. Children are inspired by science and scientists to ask questions about the world around them. Through enquiry children learn practically and outdoors where possible. Children are introduced to subject specific vocabulary and use subject specific equipment to explore questions and enquiry types.
IMPLEMENTATION
At The Whartons Primary, our Science curriculum follows the National Curriculum and provides children with an array of enriching opportunities, with a strong focus on practical learning. Our children carry out a range of experiments and investigations, beginning in EYFS all the way through to the end of KS2. The lessons that the children are taught in school have a focus on the 5 different lines of enquiry:
- observation over time
- identifying and classifying
- pattern seeking
- research
- comparative and fair testing
IMPACT
We use a range of strategies to assess what skills and knowledge the children have attained each term including the following:
- Book looks
- Snap Science Assessment quick quizzes
- Pupil Voice
- Regular feedback each lesson