Science

Intent

Our vision at Norton is that children feel like scientists. When a child leaves this school, we want them to have a secure understanding of basic scientific concepts and skills, and be able to apply these in new situations. They should have a good grasp of scientific vocabulary and show their understanding by using this terminology accurately and in the correct context. We want pupils to explore science practically and be inquisitive, active learners by asking questions about real-world concepts. We are keen for pupils to use their observations and new learning to challenge their thinking and change their ideas based on the results they see. They will have had opportunities to feel awe and wonder about how the world works, recognising that science has changed our lives and is vital to the world’s future prosperity.

Implementation

All classes enjoy at least one 60-minute Science lesson a week. All teachers follow the national curriculum objectives for their year group. Teachers plan engaging lessons which cover the statutory objectives in meaningful ways, using outside areas where appropriate and providing opportunities for children to use a range of scientific equipment. Children are able to work alone, in pairs or as a part of a group. All age-groups are encouraged to explore science practically and work scientifically in a range of experiments and investigations. STEM learning activities are used to enhance the curriculum across year groups. Safety when using equipment is a primary focus for all staff.

Children exploring the full range of scientific enquiries and enrichment opportunities

In Year 1, Vapoq (our science mascot - see below) had a problem: he had baked some gingerbread men but didn't know how to get them to his friend's house without getting them wet in the rain. Pupils investigated which materials were waterproof and would therefore keep his biscuits dry.

Year 2 enjoyed a sorting activity on the carpet. They have been learning about how living things are suited to their particular habitat and classified a range of animals by where they might be found.

As part of their work on forces, Year 3 conducted an investigation to better understand how friction works. They tried to send a toy car down ramps covered with different materials to observe the effects of this.

Year 4 enjoyed an invertebrate hunt around the school grounds. They explored microhabitats within piles of leaves and under logs. They found earthworms, slugs, ladybirds and spiders, and then used classification keys back in class to classify them by their characteristics.

After learning about water resistance, Year 5 designed boats that would be buoyant and streamlined in order to race against others in the water tray.

PSQM

In 2022-23, we worked towards the Primary Science Quality Mark (PSQM), which is an award scheme to develop and celebrate the quality of science teaching and learning in primary schools. This was down to all the efforts of pupils, parents, teaching staff and governors. Well done to us!

VAPOQ

Vapoq is our science mascot who was created during a competition back in 2023. Designed by a past pupil, Wilf, Vapoq represents our vision and principles for Science at Norton.

We use Vapoq to showcase what it means to work scientifically and develop those disciplinary skills. Teachers use Vapoq to set tasks for pupils, inspire investigations and assess pupils' use of scientific skills.

Key Stage 1 example of Vapoq being used
Key Stage 2 example of Vapoq being used

Priorities for Science at Norton CEVC Primary 2025-26

Each year, subject leaders identify priorities for the development of provision in their subjects.

This year, the three areas of focus for Science are:

Organise resources and equipment to one shared science cupboard;
Embed the use of school science mascot, VAPOQ, across the school;
Develop use of TAPS to support teaching and assessment of working scientifically skills.