‘The important thing is to never stop questioning.’

Albert Einstein

At High Halden, we encourage children to be inquisitive throughout their time at the school and beyond. The Science curriculum is designed to foster and develop intrinsic curiosity in children about our universe and promote respect for the living and non-living. We believe science encompasses the acquisition of knowledge, concepts, skills and positive attitudes. Due to the concurrence of our science curriculum, we ensure that the Working Scientifically skills are built-on and developed throughout children’s time at the school. This enables children to apply their knowledge of science when using equipment, conducting experiments, building arguments and explaining concepts confidently and continue to ask questions and be curious about their surroundings.

‘First Hand Experience’ learning is at the core of our science teaching and learning. Science lessons at High Halden allow for a wide range of scientific enquiry, including the following:

• Pattern seeking

• Observation over time

• Classifying and grouping

• Undertaking comparative and fair testing

• Researching using secondary sources

In Reception, children establish what science is and how to enquire. This begins with exploring the human body and seasonal changes, which are relatable concepts for children to understand. From this, students apply their knowledge to investigate the world around them - asking questions on habitat, plants and types of materials. In Years 1 and 2, children build upon their enquiry skills to deepen their knowledge of plants and habitats, whilst also acquiring an understanding of light and rocks. Where possible, connections are made across the curriculum; enabling children to apply skills in a variety of contexts and make meaningful, long lasting links in their knowledge. In Key Stage 2, children continue to broaden and deepen their scientific knowledge and use of key vocabulary. Children revisit and further discuss light, plants and materials, whilst also exploring sound and electricity. At this stage in their scientific growth, children are expected to write detailed investigations and apply their knowledge of concepts to work scientifically in a variety of contexts.