Science

At HMPS, we love Science and believe that every child is a scientist!

Intent

At Hunslet Moor Primary School, science is valued as a vital part of everyday life and is taught to stimulate curiosity and a sense of wonder about the world. The curriculum aims to foster a love of science while developing the skills pupils need to explore and investigate confidently, inspiring ambitions in careers such as astronauts, forensic scientists, toxicologists, or microbiologists. The school ensures a broad, balanced, and inclusive science curriculum accessible to all pupils, including those with SEND, EAL, and Pupil Premium, enriched through trips and visits from external experts. British Science Week provides themed activities and visitor sessions to further engage pupils. HMPS also emphasizes STEM education, highlighting the connections between Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths. Annual STEM days, including ‘Standing on the Shoulders of Giants’ and ‘From Ground to Plate,’ enhance knowledge of key scientists, food sources, teamwork, problem-solving skills, and inspire pupils to consider future STEM careers.

Implementation

At Hunslet Moor Primary School, science is taught weekly with a focus on practical, hands-on learning, as this is how pupils learn best. KS1 and KS2 follow the Switched on Science scheme, providing clear progression of knowledge and skills, while teachers adapt lessons to meet the needs of their individual cohorts. In EYFS, science is taught through the Understanding the World strand and supplemented with Switched on Science. The science lead monitors long- and medium-term plans, ensuring coverage, and science is taught both cross-curricular and as a standalone subject, with evidence recorded in floor books, exercise books, and photographs. Lessons integrate English, maths, technology, and computing skills, and pupils are encouraged to use science texts to develop independent learning. High-quality resources and equipment, including an on-site growing tower, allow children to explore, plan, and carry out experiments, fostering excitement and engagement in scientific discovery.

Impact

The science curriculum at Hunslet Moor Primary School aims to develop pupils’ understanding of scientific ideas and principles that they can apply to everyday life and the wider world. Teachers are skilled at assessing pupils’ knowledge, identifying gaps or misconceptions, and addressing them promptly through ongoing assessment and end-of-unit checks provided by the Switched on Science scheme. Extended Learning Challenges are used to deepen pupils’ understanding further. Termly summative assessments are recorded on SONAR to track progress in scientific knowledge and skills, with the science lead monitoring outcomes to identify additional support where needed. Consistent high-quality teaching is ensured through learning walks, book looks, pupil voice, and careful monitoring of planning across the school.