Science

Vision

At Cayley, we inspire children to explore and understand the world around them through biology, chemistry, and physics. Our science curriculum builds deep conceptual knowledge and curiosity, equipping pupils with the language and principles needed to engage with current and future scientific challenges. We celebrate the contributions of diverse scientists, past and present, and connect learning to real-world contexts to make science relevant and exciting.

Intent

The science curriculum is designed to develop curiosity, critical thinking, and a love of discovery. Pupils learn to:

• ask scientific questions and develop hypotheses
• conduct investigations and experiments safely and systematically
• observe, measure, and record data accurately
• draw evidence-based conclusions and communicate findings
• make connections between scientific knowledge and the real world

Through science, pupils build problem-solving skills, resilience, and an appreciation for how science shapes the world.

Implementation

Pupils complete weekly science lessons with regular revisits to reinforce learning. Learning is recorded in science books, usually across a two-page spread per week, supported by knowledge organisers at the start of each half-term outlining key concepts. Practical investigations are documented through photos, diagrams, and written conclusions.

Planning follows the CUSP curriculum, using medium-term plans, knowledge organisers, vocabulary grids, and teacher notes. Teachers watch the relevant CUSP knowledge videos to strengthen subject understanding. Lessons include suggested PowerPoints that can be adapted to suit the needs of the class, with additional skill-based activities drawn from the CUSP teacher notes.

Science lessons broadly follow this structure:

1. Connect – starter activity to recap prior learning and key vocabulary
2. Explain – introduction of new concepts and knowledge
3. Example – teacher modelling and guided practice
4. Attempt – pupils apply knowledge independently
5. Apply – independent, paired, or group work, including investigations
6. Challenge – critical thinking or extended application of knowledge

Lessons are adapted for all learners using the CUSP SEND resource bank. Pupils who excel can be extended with additional activities or challenge questions from the CUSP notes or through live marking.

Impact

Pupils develop a strong understanding of scientific concepts, methods, and the nature of science. They gain confidence in investigating, problem-solving, and applying knowledge independently and collaboratively.

Progress is assessed through:

• formative assessment during the Connect phase, observations, and questioning to identify gaps in understanding
• summative assessment at the end of each topic using quizzes to measure understanding and identify areas for revisit

Feedback and marking are provided in line with the school’s policy, including live marking, post-lesson assessment, peer assessment, and self-assessment where appropriate.

Monitoring includes termly learning walks, book looks, and pupil conferences. The CUSP monitoring grid is used to identify strengths, next steps, and ensure consistent high-quality teaching across the school.