Science
What our children say about science
EYFS-
Year 1-
Year 2-
Our vision for science
At Doddinghurst Infant School, our vision for Science is simple - we want every child to feel curious, confident and inspired as they explore the wonders of nature and the wider world. Our aim is to nurture children’s natural fascination with scientific phenomena through a rich, enquiry based approach that places first-hand exploration at its heart. We are committed to fostering inclusion and a strong feeling of belonging, where every child is valued, we celebrate individuality and remove barriers to learning so all pupils can thrive. Through high-quality teaching, children develop key skills such as curiosity, critical reflection, cooperation, problem solving, observation, independent learning, perseverance and open-mindedness.
We believe that a meaningful Science education helps children to understand and appreciate the role of science in everyday life, enabling them to grow confidently as young learners within a scientific society.
How we teach science
At Doddinghurst Infant School our Science curriculum is designed to meet the requirements of the national curriculum while providing a rich and engaging learning experience that equips children with the essential skills and understanding to thrive in Science. Through a balance of modelling, practice, exploration, and inspiring experiences, we help children develop confidence, independence, and a real enjoyment of Science. We aim to provide real-life, practical experiences and, when possible, opportunities that engage children’s curiosity about the natural and human-made world. We support children in developing the skills of scientific investigation, including observing, measuring, predicting, experimenting, communicating, interpreting, explaining and evaluating.
Our curriculum promotes the use and understanding of scientific vocabulary, enabling children to confidently share their findings and communicate ideas to a range of audiences in a variety of ways. We deepen pupils’ scientific knowledge and conceptual understanding through the disciplines of biology, chemistry and physics, while broadening their awareness of the nature, processes and methods of science.
Through a range of scientific enquiries, children are encouraged to ask questions, problem-solve and think critically. Ultimately, we aim to equip pupils with the knowledge and understanding to recognise the importance of science in today’s world and its impact on the future.
What children learn and achieve
Science at our school helps children grow in confidence, curiosity, and a belief in themselves as young scientists. As they learn new skills and explore the world around them, children begin to ask questions, make simple predictions, and investigate how things work. They learn to share their ideas, notice patterns and changes, and enjoy discovering new things. Because our approach is nurturing and inclusive, every child feels able to take part and succeed. Children develop independence, resilience, and pride as they carry out simple investigations, revisit key ideas, and see how their understanding grows over time. They enjoy talking about their discoveries and feel a real sense of achievement when they find out something new.
Through hands-on experiences, visitors, and opportunities to explore the natural world and their local environment, children build a wider understanding of the world and how science helps us make sense of it. By the time they leave our infant school, children have a strong foundation of scientific skills, a love of exploration, and the confidence to continue learning in Science as they move into Key Stage 2 and beyond.
Enrichment
At our school we enrich our science curriculum through a range of engaging, hands on experiences that spark curiosity and deepen children's understanding of the world around them. A highlight of the year is our annual Science week where children move around the school to take part in a variety of exciting investigations led by different year groups, alongside a dedicated activity in their own class. We celebrate enthusiasm and achievement through our Super Scientists awards, while also encouraging learning beyond the classroom with enjoyable, family-friendlyscience investigations at home.
Our approach ensures children take part in meaningful, practical enquiries that foster a love of discovery, with strong cross-curricula links to our enquiry based learning questions, helping them make connections across subjects and develop a well-rounded understanding of science.
Science subject progression at Doddinghurst Infant School
Science vocabulary progression at Doddinghurst Infant School
MRS ELLIE NEWMAN
Science Subject Lead
I’ve always been fascinated by how things work and love the excitement of discovery. I enjoy creating hands-on, practical and engaging opportunities for learning so that every child feels involved, confident and eager to explore. Watching children ask questions, investigate, and experience those “wow” moments when something new clicks is at the heart of what makes Science such a special subject.
How families can help at home
Children are naturally curious, and everyday activities can help develop their science skills. Talking about the world around them, asking questions, and exploring together can make science fun and meaningful.
Try simple activities like observing the weather, cooking, or exploring the garden to encourage curiosity and discussion.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/subjects/z6svr82
