Science at Alderbury & West Grimstead CE Primary School

Our science curriculum is built around meaningful enquiries that grow in complexity as pupils move through the school. Children learn the scientific knowledge and skills they need, then apply them in creative, purposeful ways.

Examples from our curriculum

Early Years & Key Stage 1

Enquiries introduce children to observing, classifying and exploring materials. For example: “What is my hat made of?” Children investigate materials and their properties, then design a hat that functions for a specific purpose.

Lower Key Stage 2

Pupils deepen their understanding of scientific processes and begin to apply their knowledge to real‑world contexts.

Upper Key Stage 2

Enquiries become more analytical and reflective. For example: Year 5 – “How can science help the homeless?” Pupils explore scientific ideas that can be used to solve real‑life problems, linking science to social responsibility.

Year 6 – “Linnaeus and Darwin: how are they connected?” Children classify animals and plants, explore adaptation and evolution, and create their own herbariums with botanical drawings.

Creative Expression in Science

Many enquiries include a secondary outcome where pupils express their scientific understanding through another discipline. For example: Year 1 – “What am I?” Children compare animal groups, then express differences through music and dance.

Our Vision for Science

We want every child to leave AWGS with:

• A strong understanding of scientific concepts

• The confidence to ask questions and seek answers

• The ability to think critically and creatively

• A sense of responsibility for the world around them

• A belief that science is relevant, exciting and full of possibilities