Science – Discovering God's World

Science helps us to understand the incredible world that God has created.

Every living thing, every changing season, every tiny organism and every distant star tells part of a remarkable story of discovery, curiosity and wonder.

At St Bernard's RC Primary School, we believe that Science is about much more than learning facts.

It is about asking questions.

It is about exploring.

It is about discovering how the world works and developing the confidence to think like scientists.

Through investigation, observation and enquiry, our children learn that curiosity is something to be celebrated and that every great scientific discovery begins with a simple question:

"I wonder why…?"

Intent

Our intention is to develop curious, knowledgeable and thoughtful young scientists who understand the world around them and appreciate the wonder and complexity of God's creation.

We want every child to develop a secure understanding of scientific knowledge while also acquiring the skills needed to investigate, question, observe, predict, test and evaluate.

Our curriculum encourages children to become independent thinkers who are confident to ask questions, challenge ideas respectfully and use evidence to reach thoughtful conclusions.

Science at St Bernard's is rooted in awe and wonder. We believe that children should leave each lesson with a greater appreciation of the beauty, order and complexity of the natural world, recognising both the responsibility and privilege of caring for it.

Inspired by Catholic Social Teaching, we encourage children to understand that scientific knowledge brings responsibility. Through learning about the environment, sustainability, health and the living world, children recognise their role as stewards of God's creation and develop a commitment to protecting it for future generations.

Ultimately, we want every child to believe:

"I can ask questions. I can discover answers. I can change the world."

Implementation

Our Science curriculum is carefully sequenced so that knowledge and scientific understanding build progressively from Early Years through to Year 6.

Children learn through practical investigation, first-hand experiences and meaningful enquiry. Every unit encourages children to observe carefully, ask thoughtful questions, make predictions, carry out investigations and evaluate evidence using increasingly sophisticated scientific thinking.

Working scientifically is embedded throughout the curriculum. Children develop the skills of observing, measuring, recording, classifying, comparing, interpreting data and drawing conclusions, enabling them to understand that science is a process of investigation as well as a body of knowledge.

Lessons encourage discussion and collaboration. Children are given regular opportunities to explain their thinking, justify their conclusions and respectfully challenge ideas using scientific evidence. Rich scientific vocabulary is explicitly taught, helping children communicate their understanding with increasing confidence and precision.

Our whole-school approach of Hearts, Bodies, Voices, Minds Ready is reflected throughout Science.

• Hearts Ready – developing curiosity, wonder and respect for the natural world.
• Bodies Ready – understanding healthy lifestyles, the human body and physical wellbeing.
• Voices Ready – asking questions, discussing ideas and communicating scientific thinking clearly.
• Minds Ready – investigating, analysing evidence and solving problems logically.

Learning extends beyond the classroom through outdoor learning, educational visits, practical experiences and opportunities to explore the local environment. Children are encouraged to recognise that science surrounds them every day and plays a vital role in understanding and improving the world in which we live.

Through themes such as biodiversity, climate, sustainability and environmental responsibility, children also make meaningful links with Catholic Social Teaching, recognising that caring for creation is both a scientific responsibility and an expression of our faith.

Impact

The impact of our Science curriculum is reflected in children who approach the world with curiosity, confidence and wonder.

Our children develop secure scientific knowledge alongside the ability to think critically, ask meaningful questions and use evidence to support their conclusions.

Children become increasingly independent investigators who enjoy exploring ideas, solving problems and learning through practical enquiry. They understand that mistakes are part of scientific discovery and develop resilience when investigations do not go as expected.

Children communicate their thinking clearly, using precise scientific vocabulary and explaining their ideas with confidence. They learn to value evidence, listen respectfully to different viewpoints and appreciate that scientific understanding develops through careful observation and enquiry.

Children leave St Bernard's with a growing appreciation of the beauty and complexity of the natural world. They understand that caring for God's creation is both a privilege and a responsibility, and they recognise the important role that science plays in improving people's lives and protecting our planet.

Most importantly, our children leave believing that curiosity is a gift.

They leave with minds that question.

With voices that explain.

With hearts full of wonder.

With a deep respect for the world they have been entrusted to care for.

Because every discovery helps us understand a little more about the incredible world around us.

And every question brings us one step closer to becoming lifelong learners.

That is what it means to be a scientist at St Bernard's.

This is how we continue becoming the school God wants us to be.

"The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands."
Psalm 19:1