Science
At Graven Hill Primary and Preschool, we believe that a high‑quality science education provides the foundations for understanding the world around us. Through the disciplines of biology, chemistry and physics, children develop curiosity, knowledge and skills that help them to explain how things work, predict outcomes and make sense of natural phenomena.
Science plays a vital role in shaping the future, and our curriculum is designed to inspire excitement and wonder while equipping pupils with the essential knowledge, methods and processes of scientific enquiry. As children build a body of foundational scientific understanding, they are encouraged to recognise the power of rational explanation and to ask thoughtful questions about the world they live in.
Our Science Curriculum
The core of our science curriculum is built around curiosity, enquiry and understanding. Children are taught to:
- Observe and describe the world around them
- Ask questions and suggest explanations
- Investigate scientific ideas through practical exploration
- Use evidence to explain, predict and draw conclusions
Learning is carefully sequenced so that key concepts are revisited and built upon over time, enabling children to develop secure understanding and increasing confidence in scientific thinking.
Principles for Science Teaching
Our approach to science is guided by a clear set of principles that underpin teaching and learning across the school.
Foster Curiosity
Children’s enthusiasm and natural curiosity for science is promoted at every opportunity. Lessons are designed to spark interest and encourage children to wonder, question and explore.
Prioritise Practical Learning
Hands‑on, pupil‑led practical science is central to our curriculum. Investigations are carefully planned to give children real‑life contexts wherever possible, helping them to understand scientific ideas through direct experience.
Have Fun
Science should be engaging, memorable and enjoyable. We believe that positive experiences in science help to build confidence and foster a lifelong interest in learning.
Promote Talk and Deeper Thinking
Discussion is a key part of science learning. Awe and wonder stimuli are used to encourage questioning, prediction and the generation of ideas, supporting children to think deeply and articulate their understanding using scientific language.
Get Outside
The outdoor environment and local area are used regularly to enhance science learning. Outdoor experiences provide meaningful opportunities for observation, investigation and exploration.
Be Scientific
Correct, age‑appropriate scientific vocabulary is modelled and used confidently by both staff and pupils, supporting precision in thinking and communication.
Inspire
Children learn about both historical and modern scientists and engineers, and where possible, meet real professionals working in STEM fields. These experiences help pupils to see how science is used in the real world, raise aspirations and inspire the next generation of scientists.
Scientific Enquiry Skills
An essential part of science learning at Graven Hill is developing children’s understanding of how science works. Pupils are taught a range of scientific enquiry approaches, including:
Observing Over Time
Children observe changes and processes over time, such as planting seeds and watching them grow, studying mould growth, or exploring life cycles through butterflies and tadpoles.
Identifying and Classifying
Pupils develop skills in grouping and classifying living things and materials. First‑hand experiences include identifying mini‑beasts our extensive school grounds including our pond area, classifying leaves and seeds, and observing birds, insects and life in local streams.
Pattern Seeking
Children learn to look for patterns and relationships where variables cannot be fully controlled. For example, they may investigate whether reaction times differ depending on factors such as height, handedness or activity levels.
Research
Pupils are encouraged to find answers to questions through research, using books, the school library, digital resources and by asking experts, helping them to understand that scientific knowledge is continually developed and refined.
Fair Testing
Children learn how to plan and carry out fair tests by controlling variables. Examples include testing which materials keep porridge warmest, investigating the effects of light and darkness, or exploring historical scientific practices such as mummification.
Science Beyond the Classroom
Science learning at Graven Hill extends beyond individual lessons. Cross‑curricular links are made where appropriate, and pupils are encouraged to see science as part of everyday life.
Through exploration, discussion and practical investigation, children develop resilience, teamwork and problem‑solving skills, alongside a growing appreciation of the importance of science in society.
Preparing Children for the Future
Our science curriculum ensures that children leave Graven Hill with:
- A strong foundation of scientific knowledge and understanding
- Curiosity and excitement about the natural world
- Confidence in scientific enquiry and investigation
- The ability to think critically and use evidence
- An understanding of how science shapes the world and future careers
By combining knowledge, enquiry and inspiration, our science curriculum empowers children to explore, question and understand the world around them — nurturing inquisitive minds and laying the foundations for future scientific learning.