Science

Science Intent at The Kingfisher School

Be Kind, Work Hard, Have Courage

At The Kingfisher School, our science curriculum is guided by our core values of Be Kind, Work Hard, and Have Courage, which are embedded in every aspect of our learning and teaching. We believe that science not only ignites curiosity about the world but also fosters a sense of responsibility, respect for living organisms, and an understanding of the environment.

Be Kind

In the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), our youngest pupils begin their scientific journey by exploring the world around them. Through the key area of ‘Understanding the World,’ they develop fundamental scientific skills such as observation, questioning, and exploration. By investigating animals, plants, and life cycles, and manipulating materials, they begin to appreciate the interconnectedness of life. This foundation nurtures Kindness, as pupils develop respect for the world and its processes, learning to treat living organisms and the environment with care.

Work Hard

As pupils move through Key Stages 1 and 2, they build upon their foundational knowledge and expand their scientific understanding. Through carefully sequenced units in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, pupils not only acquire key scientific concepts but also engage in rigorous enquiry. They collect and analyse data, test hypotheses, and work to deepen their understanding of the world. Working Hard is central to our curriculum, as pupils are encouraged to engage fully with the learning process, persist through challenges, and strive for accuracy and depth in their scientific investigations.

Have Courage

Science at The Kingfisher School empowers pupils to be brave in their learning. By encouraging them to ask their own questions, explore new ideas, and take risks in their investigations, we foster Courage. Our pupils are supported to approach challenges with resilience, knowing that making mistakes and overcoming obstacles are vital parts of the scientific process. As they engage in practical experiments and investigations, they build confidence in their ability to think critically and explore scientific concepts with determination and bravery.

At The Kingfisher School, our science curriculum is designed to inspire lifelong curiosity and equip pupils with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes they need to make a positive impact on the world. Through the values of Be Kind, Work Hard, and Have Courage, we aim to nurture responsible, confident scientists who are prepared to tackle the challenges of the future, whether in science or in the broader world.

EYFS:

Year 1 and 2 Cycle A

Seasonal Change: How do we notice the changing of seasons?

Biology: Seen parts of the Human Body: What are our seen body parts called and what do we mean by the five senses?

 Biology – Animals: Why do animals choose to live where they do?

Physics Seasonal Change: How do seasons change?

Biology – Plants: What are the names of different parts of plants and which birds do we recognise?

Year 1 and 2 Cycle B

Biology – Animals: How are animals classified?

Chemistry – Everyday materials: What are the properties of different materials?

Biology – Plants: What do plans and trees need to grow healthily?

Biology – Humans: Why is it important to keep our bodies healthy?

Year 3 and 4 Cycle A:

Physics – Electricity: Why is electricity so important and why is it so important in our lives?

Physics – Rocks and soil: What are the main types of rocks on our Earth?

Chemistry – States of Matter: How do some solids, liquids and gases change state?

Physics – Forces and Magnets: What do we mean by a ‘force’?

Year 3 and 4 Cycle B:

Physics: Light and dark: Why do we have light and dark and what is its impact on our everyday life?

Science:

Biology – Animals, including humans: What happens to the food we eat?

Physics – sound: How is sound created and how does it travel?

Biology – Plants and animals: What wild animals and plants thrive in our local environment?

Biology – Classification of living things: How are living things grouped?

Year 5 and 6 Cycle A:

Chemistry – Properties and changes in materials: Which materials can or cannot be changed back into their original form?

Physics – Light: How do our eyes help us see?

Biology – animals including humans and their habitats: What do we know about the life cycles of humans and various animals?

Climate Change: Why is climate change such an important topic?

Physics – Forces: What is a force and how does it impact on the way things move?

Year 5 and 6 Cycle B:

Physics: Earth and Space: What do we know about the Sun, Earth, Moon and the Planets?

Biology – Animals (including humans): How does the heart work and why is it so important?

Physics – Electricity: How does electricity work and how does its power vary?

Biology – Evolution and Inheritance: How have living  things on Earth changed over time?