The greatest scientific discovery was the discovery of ignorance. Once humans realised how little they knew about the world, they suddenly had a very good reason to seek new knowledge, which opened up the scientific road to progress.

- Yuval Noah Harari

Science Curriculum Intent Statement 

Our science curriculum is designed to spark curiosity and inspire ambition through big questions that challenge students to think deeply about the world around them. We believe science is a dynamic, interconnected discipline that empowers learners to explore, question, and understand the principles shaping life and the universe. 

Through a spiral and sequenced curriculum, students revisit and build upon core ideas, developing secure knowledge and scientific skills over time. Our approach combines practical investigation with conceptual understanding, enabling students to apply science in real-world contexts and appreciate its relevance to society and future innovation. 

We structure learning around six key concepts: 

• Chemistry – understanding matter, reactions, and the materials that shape our world. 
• Evolution – exploring inheritance, adaptation, and the diversity of life. 
• Ecosystems – investigating interdependence and the balance of living systems. 
• Living Things – examining cells, body systems, and the processes that sustain life. 
• Energy – analysing energy transfers, electricity, and the principles powering technology. 
• Forces – uncovering the laws of motion and the interactions that govern physical phenomena. 

Our curriculum is enriched by links to Cornwall Spaceport, expertise in oceanography and chemical engineering, and collaboration with the National Space Academy. These partnerships, alongside STEM connections across technology, provide authentic contexts for learning and inspire students to see science as a gateway to future careers and innovation. 

We also weave narratives and stories throughout our curriculum, because science is built on life and tells stories about the bigger questions humanity faces—from the origins of the universe to the sustainability of our planet. Through these stories, we select interesting texts and articles that bring our curriculum to life, helping students connect scientific ideas to human experiences and global challenges. 

Ultimately, our intent is to equip students with the curiosity, knowledge, and resilience to think scientifically, solve problems, and make informed decisions about the world they live in and the future they will shape. 

Focused Curriculum Contextual Routines

• Reading  
• Visualiser 
• Narration and Think Out Loud 
• Frayer Model 
• Mini White Boards 
• Cold Calling 
• Concrete Examples 

Additional Opportunities Beyond the Classroom

• Links to The National Space Academy  
• STEM projects