Science

Our Intent

Science gives us a knowledge and understanding of the natural phenomena of God’s Kingdom. At OLQH we aim to stimulate a child’s curiosity in finding out why things happen in the way they do by promoting creativity in science, following the national curriculum objectives. Through our teachers’ design of creative lessons, children ask and explore scientific questions; they follow their own independent thinking and use their own initiative and imagination. By giving children ownership of their learning, they are encouraged to develop confidence to take risks in experimentation, and resilience to test theories and question outcomes, seeing that we do not always know the answers or results.

A significant proportion of learning for all pupils is through working scientifically which teaches different methods of practical enquiry and investigation (e.g. classifying, comparative and fair testing and pattern seeking) and the skills required for investigation (e.g. hypothesising, planning, predicting, measuring, recording results and drawing conclusions). We aim to stimulate creative and critical thinking so children acquire scientific knowledge and skills and an appreciation of the way science will affect their future on a personal, national and global level.

At OLQH children of all abilities are enabled to access the lessons in order to achieve the same objective, with supporting resources where necessary. We aim to develop pupils’ skills of cooperation through working with others in ways that are meaningful to their lives and wherever possible through exciting, outdoor activities: this enthuses enjoyment, awe and wonder of the scientific world around them. Children are encouraged to treat the living and non-living environment with respect and sensitivity and are taught the need for personal and group safety by correct usage and storage of equipment, materials and resources.

We aim to instill in our pupils a lifelong love of science and the aspiration to follow STEM subjects in their education - particularly girls. This is achieved by promoting a positive image of science with global and cultural connections; by celebrating inspiring scientists from diverse races and cultures and of different disabilities and genders; and by giving opportunities to debate current theories and scientific issues, which will deepen their thinking so that they aspire to achieve at the highest level. We stress that reflection on one’s work and perseverance lead to innovation, invention and the advancement of technological and scientific knowledge - vital to the world’s future.

Key documents:

• 1 Whole School Science Curriculum
• 2 Progression in Skills working scientifically
• 3 Progression of Knowledge Science
• 4 Science Policy