Subject area: Science

At Woodland Primary, we encourage children to be inquisitive throughout their time at the school and beyond. We believe the Science curriculum fosters a healthy curiosity in our children about the universe and promotes respect for the world around them.

We believe Science encompasses the acquisition of knowledge, concepts, skills and positive attitudes. By working together on a hands-on, enquiry-based approach, our children acquire and develop the key knowledge identified within each unit for each year group from the programmes of National Curriculum study.

Our curriculum is designed to ensure that our children are able to acquire key scientific knowledge and skills to find out more about the world and how it works. Lessons are enquiry based, this encourages pupils to use a variety of approaches to answer their questions. These types of scientific enquiry include:

· comparative and fair testing

· identifying, classifying and grouping

· observing over time

· pattern seeking

· researching using secondary sources

Science is taught weekly through practical experiences such as quizzes, critical thinking groups, using equipment, conducting experiments, building arguments and explaining concepts confidently. Our children are encouraged to ask questions and be curious about their surroundings and a love of Science is nurtured through a whole school ethos and a varied science curriculum.

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Safeguarding: The school has effective safeguarding measures in place. Staff are well-informed and confident in identifying and addressing potential risks to pupils. Pupils are knowledgeable about staying safe, particularly online.

Leadership and Ambition: School leaders are noted for their ambition and effective work in improving the school. Their efforts have resulted in a good quality of education for the pupils.

Personal Development: Pupils are encouraged to be independent from an early age and take care in presenting their work. They enjoy participating in various clubs and activities, including sporting competitions and educational visits.

Quality of Education: Pupils receive strong support in learning to read quickly and achieving well. The curriculum is well-planned and effective, particularly in the early years and mathematics. Teachers and teaching assistants are well-trained and provide clear explanations and encouragement.

Support for SEND: Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) are quickly identified and well-supported, achieving good outcomes as a result.

Overall Effectiveness: The school was rated ‘Good’ in all categories, including quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision.

Positive Environment: The school’s environment fosters respect and support among pupils and staff. Pupils are encouraged to develop good manners and social skills, contributing to a positive school culture.

Behaviour and Attitudes: Pupils exhibit respectful relationships with adults and move around the school sensibly. They are confident in seeking help from staff if needed, and bullying is rare. Pupils listen attentively to teachers and engage in class discussions.