Science Overview

At Wenlock CE Academy, our science curriculum is carefully structured to ensure all national curriculum programmes of study are covered within each phase. While each topic is typically assigned to a specific year group, there is flexibility to best suit our pupils’ learning needs, as long as the required content is taught by the end of the key stage. It’s worth noting that physics topics are formally introduced from Key Stage 2 onwards.

Our science projects are closely aligned with the national curriculum, with titles such as "Living Things and Their Habitats" and "Earth and Space." The sequence of these projects is designed to build children’s scientific knowledge and vocabulary, ensuring they develop both a secure understanding of key concepts (substantive knowledge) and the ability to work scientifically (disciplinary knowledge).

Where possible, we make meaningful links between science and other subjects to create a rich and engaging learning experience. For example, in Year 3, "Plant Nutrition and Reproduction" and "Light and Shadows" are taught alongside the design and technology project "Greenhouse" and the art project "Beautiful Botanicals." These connections help children apply their scientific learning in real-life and cross-curricular contexts.

We carefully plan the timing of each project to maximise hands-on learning opportunities. For instance, units involving plant growth or animal observation are scheduled for the most suitable seasons, so children can make first-hand observations and deepen their understanding.

Throughout our science curriculum, children learn key scientific skills alongside content, preparing them to ask questions, investigate, and think scientifically as they progress through the school.

We are proud to currently hold the Primary Science Quality Mark (PSQM), which recognises our commitment to excellence in science teaching and learning. This national award celebrates schools that demonstrate strong leadership, a clear vision for science, and a culture of high-quality, practical science education.

We are currently working towards achieving the PSQM Gilt, an enhanced level of the award which highlights sustained progress and further development in science across the school. Working towards Gilt status means we are deepening our focus on embedding great science practice, further developing staff expertise, and ensuring that science at Wenlock CE Academy is engaging, inclusive, and impactful for every pupil.