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Science

 

From reception (EYFS) where children explore the natural world (EYFS Statutory Framework), through to KS1 and KS2 (Primary Science National Curriculum) all children at Highwoods are offered an ambitious and engaging scientific programme of study. 

Key skills and knowledge in biology, chemistry and physics are nurtured over the years through a rigorous programme of revisiting knowledge and extending skills. Topics are linked to other areas of the curriculum to ensure that practice reinforces new concepts and learning is accessible and meaningful. Key 'working scientifically' skills are woven through all units to enable all children to become independent scientists with a passion for investigation.

Our science curriculum is designed to be aspirational and inspiring. Throughout their time at Highwoods, children will discover a number of influential scientists who have influenced different areas of science throughout history, including those working in the present day.  Inspirational Scientists

We aim to make science engaging and relevant - where possible, children throughout the school have a range of visits and trips to support and enhance their scientific education.

  • EYFS children have the opportunity to have hands-on experiences with various animals during our farm visit.
  • Year 1 children learn about local plants and trees during their visit to Highwoods Country Park. 
  • Year 2 children explore insects and animal habitats when they visit Abberton Reservoir and Colchester Zoo.  
  • Year 3 learn about rocks and fossils during their trip to Walton-on-the-Naze.
  • Year 4 visit Flatford Mill.
  • Year 5 learn more about animals at Colchester Zoo and develop their understanding of Earth & Space through a visit from a planetarium.

 

 

Supporting Science Learning at Home

Below are some links to simple experiments and activities you can do  to help develop a sense of curiosity and excitement around science and the natural world.

Crest Awards: have different aged activities suitable for exploring at home. https://collectionslibrary.crestawards.org/

Science sparks: lots of different activity ideas. https://www.science-sparks.com/

The Imagination Tree: lots of practical activities, a super home-made playdough recipe. https://theimaginationtree.com/

The Science Museum: has lots of inspiring activities to look through. https://learning-resources.sciencemuseum.org.uk/resourcetype/at-home/

Primary Science Teaching Trust (PSTT): have put together lots of different home learning experiments https://pstt.org.uk/resources/curriculum-materials/Science-Fun-at-Hom