Science
Our Whole School Science Overview
Science at Drighlington Primary School
At Drighlington Primary, we believe that all children can be scientists. Through science, children explore, question and make sense of the world around them. We want to spark curiosity and excitement, encouraging children to ask questions and discover answers through hands-on experiences.
Science helps children to understand how the world works, from the smallest living things to the largest forces in nature. By developing knowledge, skills and confidence, we support children to think critically, use scientific vocabulary and make connections between what they already know and new learning.
“Science knows no country because knowledge belongs to humanity…” – Louis Pasteur
What does science look like in our school?
Science at Drighlington is practical, engaging and full of discussion. Children learn through investigating, exploring and working together to solve problems.
In lessons, children regularly:
- Ask questions and explore their own ideas
- Carry out investigations and experiments
- Observe, measure, sort and record their findings
- Use scientific vocabulary to explain their thinking
- Work collaboratively and share ideas with others
Each lesson begins with retrieval practice, helping children to revisit and remember what they have already learned. This supports them in building knowledge over time and making strong connections across topics.
We also make sure children understand that science links to real life and future careers. Throughout lessons, teachers highlight STEM opportunities and show how scientific skills are used in jobs such as:
- Doctors and nurses
- Engineers and designers
- Environmental scientists
- Researchers and laboratory scientists
This helps children to see themselves as future scientists and understand the importance of what they are learning.
Learning beyond the lesson
Science is brought to life across the school through a range of experiences.
Children have opportunities to:
- Take part in practical investigations both inside and outside the classroom
- Use our outdoor areas to explore the natural world
- Engage in STEM activities and themed events
- See their work celebrated through displays and shared learning
These experiences help children to develop a deeper understanding and enthusiasm for science.
How we support every child
Our science curriculum is carefully planned so that learning builds over time. Teachers adapt lessons to meet the needs of all pupils, ensuring that everyone can take part and succeed.
Children are encouraged to:
- Build on their natural curiosity
- Ask their own scientific questions
- Think about how to investigate and find answers
- Develop confidence in explaining their ideas
There is a strong focus on talk and discussion, helping children to develop both their understanding and their use of scientific language.
Our aim
We want every child to:
- Be curious about the world around them
- Ask questions and seek answers
- Develop confidence in scientific thinking
- Understand how science impacts everyday life
- Be inspired by future STEM opportunities
How you can help your child at home
Children are naturally curious about the world around them. Parents and other carers can nurture this curiosity in children of all ages by creating a positive and safe environment at home for exploration and discovery.
- Encourage and inspire your children to observe, ask questions, experiment, tinker, and seek their own understandings of the world around them.
- Create scientific learning opportunities at home and in the community through outdoor play; participation in summer programs; or trips to parks, museums, zoos, nature centres, and other interesting science-rich sites in the community.
- Get involved in your child’s learning and learn new things about science and technology.
- Take advantage of not knowing all the answers to your children’s questions, and embrace opportunities to learn science together.
- Dispel children’s negative stereotypes about scientists, and help them understand that anyone can have a career in science.
Places to visit
Oakwell Hall (free of charge) https://www.kirklees.gov.uk/beta/museums-and-galleries/oakwell-hall.aspx
Tropical World https://tropicalworld.leeds.gov.uk/
Eureka, National Children's Museum, Halifax https://www.eureka.org.uk/
National Science and Media Museum, Bradford https://www.scienceandmediamuseum.org.uk/
Further support and useful weblinks
Early Years Development Matters
Science programmes of study: key stages 1 and 2 National curriculum in England
The National Curriculum for science for video clips and activities
The Science Museum for information, games etc.
The Children’s University of Manchester Science pages
The Royal Institute’s annual Christmas lectures make science real for children and are available online, along with lots of other educational goodies
