Science is about children developing a sense of enquiry and extending their knowledge and understanding of the world around them. At Blackpool Gateway, we use a range of teaching methods in science lessons, with an emphasis on providing a curriculum which develops and extends the children’s scientific concepts and enables them to be curious about the world. This will lead to children learning to work as scientists, planning and undertaking practical investigations.
In the Early Years Foundation Stage, activities are planned in relation to the ‘Understanding the World’ area of the foundation stage curriculum. Children’s progress and achievements are assessed against the Early Learning Goals at the end of Reception. The activities are planned in a cross curricular way through topic areas that are interesting and enjoyable.
During Key stages 1 and 2, Science is taught through cross curricular topics and also specific subject lessons. Wherever possible, links are made between Science and other subjects, particularly English, Maths, DT and Computing. Activities are planned to cover the relevant key science skills and knowledge for each year group, with particular importance placed on children working practically so that they can make discoveries for themselves. Work is recorded in a variety of ways including the use of drawings, charts, graphs and photographs. Children complete at least 1 science investigation per half term, with an emphasis on assessing particular science investigational skills.
As a whole school we always participate in British Science Week offering enrichment opportunities for every year group. We work closely with members of our local community such as Blackpool Zoo to offer educational visits, enrichment opportunities and extend their generosity to some of our families giving them a chance to visit and use their facilities.
At our school, Working Scientifically is at the heart of our Science curriculum, transforming students from passive learners into active explorers. Rather than simply memorising facts, our children develop the essential skills of inquiry by asking big questions, predicting outcomes and conducting hands-on investigations. From the early years through to Year 6, students progress from making simple observations to designing complex fair tests, taking precise measurements and using evidence to justify their findings. By mastering the five types of scientific enquiry—including pattern seeking and longitudinal observation—our pupils build the critical thinking and curiosity needed to understand the world around them and the confidence to solve the challenges of the future.
