Science

Science at Radwinter CofE Primary School

At Radwinter CofE (VA) Primary School we believe that science education is vital in nurturing every child’s curiosity and understanding of the world. Our science curriculum reflects our vision of “Growing and learning together to embrace life in all its fullness” (John 10:10), offering a broad, balanced, and engaging programme that prepares children to flourish both inside and beyond the classroom.

Our Intent for Science Learning

We encourage every child to be inquisitive and to develop a lifelong love of learning about the natural world. Science at Radwinter is not just about acquiring facts, but about fostering respect for living things and the environment, and developing essential scientific skills and positive attitudes.

Our curriculum is carefully designed to build children’s knowledge, concepts, vocabulary, and skills progressively throughout their primary years.
Children learn through hands-on experiences—using equipment, conducting experiments, and explaining their findings—ensuring their understanding is both deep and practical.
We tailor our approach to reflect our school context, making use of local expertise and visits to places of scientific interest, which enrich learning and bring science to life.
Cross-curricular links are identified and planned, so science learning connects meaningfully with other subjects and children’s everyday experiences.

How We Implement Science Teaching and Learning

Our dedicated teachers create a positive and inclusive atmosphere where all children are expected to achieve high standards in science. We ensure:

Continuity and Progression: Science units are planned to build on prior learning, with gaps addressed early to support all learners, including those with SEND.
Pupil Voice and Curiosity: Children’s questions and interests shape lessons, promoting a culture where curiosity is celebrated and scientific enquiry thrives.
Problem Solving and Critical Thinking: Our lessons encourage children to apply their knowledge creatively, investigate problems, and develop reasoning skills.
Regular Assessment: Teachers use precise questioning and assessments to identify learning needs and provide appropriate challenge for every child.
Working Scientifically Skills: These are embedded systematically from Reception to Year 6, with new vocabulary and concepts introduced thoughtfully to deepen understanding.
Outdoor Learning and Expert Engagement: We frequently use our beautiful rural surroundings and invite specialists to lead workshops, helping children connect science with the world around them.
Enrichment Opportunities: Events like Science Week, Forest School sessions, visits, and visitors bring science to life and often involve families and the wider community.

The Impact of Our Science Curriculum

Our approach results in a fun, engaging, and high-quality science education that lays strong foundations for children’s understanding of the world. Through:

First-hand Experiences: Frequent outdoor learning and community-based activities ensure children learn through discovery and real-world connections.
Role Models and Careers Awareness: Interaction with local scientists and professionals inspires children, showing them that science is accessible and relevant to their futures.
Inclusive Excellence: Every child, regardless of background or ability, is supported to feel confident and capable as a young scientist.

Living Our Christian Values Through Science

Our science teaching embodies the Christian values at the heart of Radwinter CofE Primary School—fairness, forgiveness, kindness, respect, and service. By nurturing curiosity and respect for the world, we help children grow in wisdom and hope, preparing them to serve their communities with dignity and compassion. This aligns with our vision to embrace life in all its fullness, encouraging children to look upwards, outwards, and inwards as they explore the wonders of science.

Get Involved and Explore Science With Us

We warmly invite parents and the wider community to engage with our science curriculum. Whether through supporting Science Week activities, attending workshops, or sharing expertise, your involvement enriches our children’s learning experiences and strengthens our school family.

For more information about our science curriculum or upcoming events, please contact the school office or visit our regular newsletters and news updates.

In Summary

At Radwinter CofE Primary School, science education is a key part of how we nurture inquisitive, confident, and compassionate learners. Through a carefully planned curriculum, rich practical experiences, and strong community links, we empower our children to understand and appreciate the world around them—living out our vision by growing and learning together to embrace life in all its fullness.

Together, we inspire a love of science that lasts a lifetime.