At Nelson Primary School, we believe that a good foundation in science is essential for nurturing responsible, active citizens who are equipped to thrive in an ever-changing world. We envision a school where every child:

• Develops a lifelong passion for science and enquiry
• Possesses a deep understanding of the natural world and its interconnectedness
• Thinks critically and creatively to solve problems and make informed decisions
• Engages in scientific exploration with curiosity and enthusiasm
• Appreciates the role of science in shaping our world and its impact on our lives

Our teachers at Nelson are committed to sparking scientific curiosity in our pupils. We encourage them to ask questions, explore their surroundings, and discover answers through simple yet engaging observation and hands-on experimentation. By fostering this natural curiosity, we aim to lay the foundation for a lifelong love of learning.

In the early years, we focus on developing analytical thinking skills. Our goal is to nurture children's ability to think critically, helping them analyse basic data and draw conclusions. This approach empowers them to approach challenges with a logical and informed mindset, setting the stage for more advanced learning.

Our curriculum places a strong emphasis on fostering an understanding of the natural world. We strive to provide children with a basic yet comprehensive grasp of the natural world, highlighting its interconnectedness and introducing them to the impact of simple human activities on the environment.

Hands-on learning is a core aspect of our approach, especially when it comes to the Application of Scientific Skills. We dedicate time to equipping children with fundamental scientific skills such as observation, simple experimentation, basic data collection, and effective communication. These skills not only enrich their early academic experiences but also lay the groundwork for more advanced scientific exploration.

 

Respect for Living and Non-Living Things is an essential value we instil in our young students. We aim to cultivate a deep-seated respect for all aspects of the environment, fostering a sense of responsibility towards the living and non-living components of our ecosystem from an early age.

Our interdisciplinary approach involves the integration of skills. Science is seamlessly woven into other subjects such as mathematics and English, demonstrating the relevance and application of scientific concepts in everyday contexts. This approach enhances the holistic development of our young learners.

We understand the importance of vocabulary development, and we explicitly teach a range of age-appropriate scientific terms. This not only enriches their understanding of the subject but also enhances their ability to express scientific concepts with age-appropriate precision and clarity.

Highlighting Real-World Relevance is integral to our teaching methodology. We emphasise the practical applications of science, connecting theoretical concepts to simple real-world scenarios. By doing so, we aim to foster a deeper appreciation for the impact of science on our pupils' daily lives.

Finally, we aspire to ignite Academic and Social Aspirations in our primary school students. Beyond imparting knowledge, we encourage them to explore their interests in science, nurturing their potential to become curious learners, explorers, and budding problem solvers. Our primary school science education is designed to inspire a generation that not only understands the subject but is also excited to continue their scientific journey as they progress through their education.