Our goal for Science education is that children become scientifically literate citizens who understand the world around them, by developing:
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the ability to ask meaningful questions based on their experiences
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the use of scientific enquiry skills; and
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enjoyment of exploring, discovering and creating meaningful connections with the world.
At William Tyndale, we encourage children to be curious scientists. We believe that it is important for children to have as many memorable hands-on scientific opportunities across their school career. In order to provide these opportunities, the science curriculum has been carefully crafted to include opportunities for children to develop the key knowledge identified within each topic, as well as the application of the scientific skills. We ensure that the ‘Working Scientifically’ skills are built-on and developed throughout children’s time at school so that they can apply their knowledge of science when conducting experiments, making observations or predictions, explaining concepts and asking questions. The science curriculum offers a range of experiences in order to foster enthusiasm for science in our children. Please have a look at our Whole School Science Overview and the Working Scientifically Skills for more detail.
Inquiry led learning
Investigations are conducted in all year groups to enable the development of scientific enquiry. Sessions will often begin with a question, for example: ‘Which object will melt the fastest?’. Children will be encouraged to apply their scientific knowledge to discover the answer to the question using the large bank of resources available to all classes in our Morris Building, a learning space dedicated to science.
STEM Project
Every year group works on a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) project which creates links across the curriculum with design and technology (see curriculum maps for each year group). Children apply their science knowledge to carefully plan and create a product, for example: choosing the best materials to create a dream playground, or building an electronic Mars Rover linked to the electricity topic.
Science Capital developed through trips and visitors
We want our children to be inspired to engage with STEM. To achieve this, we offer a number of excursions, and visits from science professionals to all children. Across their school career children will have many opportunities including:
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visits to The Science Museum
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workshops with The Garden Classroom
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visits to Islington’s Ecology Centre
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working with Centre for the Cell
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a drone workshop
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learning about volcanos, earthquakes and fossils with UCL Geobus.
Eco Team
The Eco Team consists of children from across the school. Members are nominated by their class at the start of each academic year. The children meet together to discuss improvements that can be made within the school including reducing energy use, waste and promoting recycling.
For questions about the provision of Science at William Tyndale, please contact the subject leader, Holly Pick, via parentmessages@williamtyndale.islington.sch.uk