Science Intent

At Springwood Federation, our intent is to inspire curiosity and a deep understanding of the natural and physical world through high-quality science education. We aim to develop pupils’ substantive knowledge of scientific facts, concepts, and processes alongside disciplinary knowledge—skills in scientific enquiry, investigation, and critical thinking.

We want pupils to:

• Develop a secure understanding of key scientific ideas and vocabulary.
• Employ the scientific method confidently, including hypothesising, testing, observing, analysing, and concluding.
• Think critically and independently, using evidence to support their explanations.
• Foster a sense of wonder and curiosity about the world around them.
• Build skills that enable them to ask scientific questions and explore answers systematically.
• Appreciate the relevance of science in everyday life and future learning.

Our curriculum is designed to ensure all pupils make strong progress from their individual starting points, including those with SEND and disadvantaged backgrounds, by providing accessible and engaging learning experiences.

Science Implementation

Our science curriculum follows Hampshire’s Science Curriculum framework, ensuring coverage of both substantive knowledge—scientific facts and concepts—and disciplinary knowledge—scientific enquiry skills and critical thinking.

We implement this through:

• A carefully sequenced long-term plan that builds knowledge progressively across key stages.
• Medium-term plans that integrate substantive and disciplinary knowledge within each unit.
• Practical, hands-on investigations and experiments that allow pupils to apply the scientific method.
• Opportunities for pupils to hypothesise, plan investigations, collect and analyse data, and draw evidence-based conclusions.
• Use of scientific vocabulary and discussion to deepen understanding and communication.
• Differentiated activities and scaffolding to meet diverse learning needs.
• Regular formative assessment to inform teaching and ensure pupils consolidate and build on prior learning.
• Enrichment opportunities such as science-themed events, visits, and cross-curricular links to enhance engagement.

Science Impact 

As a result of our intent and implementation:

• Pupils demonstrate confident use of scientific enquiry skills and a solid grasp of scientific knowledge.
• Attainment in science meets or exceeds national expectations, with strong progress shown by all groups, including SEND and disadvantaged pupils.
• Pupils are curious, motivated, and able to think critically about scientific questions.
• They communicate their scientific ideas clearly, using appropriate vocabulary and evidence.
• Subject leaders and governors rigorously monitor teaching quality and pupil outcomes to ensure continuous improvement.
• Pupils are well-prepared for the next stages of their education with a strong foundation in both scientific knowledge and enquiry skills.