Science

We deliver our Science curriculum through the Cornerstones programme, which carefully sequences projects to build children’s knowledge and skills in line with the National Curriculum.

Each science project is matched to the National Curriculum aspects, such as Living Things and Their Habitats or Earth and Space. In Key Stage 1, for example, the topic Animals, including Humans is studied in two stages, starting with humans before expanding to explore animals.

The projects are designed to develop both substantive knowledge (factual understanding) and disciplinary knowledge (scientific enquiry skills). The projects often make meaningful links with other subjects. For example, in Year 3, the projects Plant Nutrition and Reproduction and Light and Shadows are taught alongside the design and technology project Greenhouse and the art and design project Beautiful Botanicals. These connections help children apply their knowledge in real-life contexts.

Project sequencing is carefully planned to ensure children have the vocabulary and knowledge needed to fully engage with subsequent projects. Timing is also considered to give children the best opportunities for first-hand observations, such as growing plants or observing animals during appropriate seasons. By embedding scientific enquiry within each project, children develop both their understanding of scientific concepts and the skills to explore the world around them.