Science

Intent

At The Royal School, we teach pupils that, “Science is the study of nature and natural things.” Our Science curriculum sparks curiosity, promotes exploration, and helps pupils understand the world through scientific enquiry. Hands-on investigations enable pupils to learn to work scientifically: asking questions; making predictions; gathering data; drawing conclusions. Pupils build secure knowledge across biology, chemistry, and physics, while developing key vocabulary and concepts. A well-sequenced, inclusive curriculum ensures all pupils see themselves as scientists and supports long-term knowledge retention through regular retrieval. By fostering scientific thinking, collaboration, and resilience, we prepare pupils to understand and shape the world around them.

Implementation

Our Science curriculum is carefully sequenced from EYFS to Year 6, with each unit building on prior learning and revisiting key concepts. Medium-term plans reference earlier content to support progression and deepen understanding. Core enquiry skills- observation, fair testing, and classification- are developed consistently across all year groups to strengthen scientific thinking over time. Through discreet teaching, the teaching year is made up of topics from all three strands of Science.

Science is taught as a discrete subject, in line with the National Curriculum. Enquiry-led lessons promote curiosity and independent thinking. Teachers model scientific skills using clear, consistent strategies and support pupils to work practically, make predictions, and record results. Children are encouraged to reflect on their findings and ask further questions, supporting a culture of active learning, thus simulating the whole-brain approach to learning.

Lessons begin with ‘Think Backs’ to activate prior knowledge, while scientific vocabulary and key facts are reinforced through pedagogies such as low-stakes quizzes and visual prompts. Concepts are embedded in every year group to develop scientific thinking over time.

Staff receive regular CPD on scientific pedagogy, retrieval strategies, and working scientifically. Planning support, modelled lessons, and coaching ensure consistency and confidence in teaching Science. Subject leads support staff in assessing pupil work and developing high-quality provision across the school.

Science lessons are inclusive and adapted to meet the needs of all learners, with scaffolded resources, targeted questioning, and tailored support for SEND and EAL pupils. This approach stems from our ‘Scientists Across the Curriculum’ policy. Each unit highlights diverse scientific figures, promoting representation and inclusion. Enrichment activities broaden pupils’ horizons and show the relevance of Science in their lives. By exploring global scientific contributions, pupils gain respect for diverse perspectives and view Science as a shared human endeavour.

Implementation is monitored through book looks, lesson visits, pupil voice, and assessment data. Feedback is used to inform planning, support staff development, and ensure high standards across all classes. Regular reviews of curriculum content and delivery ensure that the intent is being realised consistently and effectively.

Impact

Pupils build secure knowledge of key scientific concepts and vocabulary, with regular retrieval helping them recall and apply learning confidently. SEND and disadvantaged pupils make strong progress through adaptive teaching and targeted support, ensuring access for all. Pupils are well-prepared for secondary Science, equipped with strong enquiry skills and a confident, curious mindset. The curriculum promotes critical thinking, resilience, collaboration, and cultural awareness, supporting wider personal development.