Primary Science
Our vision
At The Windmill School, our primary science curriculum is designed to ignite curiosity and foster a lifelong love of learning in our students. We are committed to providing a stimulating and supportive environment where every child can explore the wonders of science through hands-on experiences and inquiry-based learning.
Our Curriculum
We proudly follow the White Rose Curriculum, which ensures a comprehensive and cohesive approach to science education. This curriculum allows us to:
Build Strong Foundations: By following a structured and progressive framework, we ensure that students develop a deep understanding of key scientific concepts and principles from an early age.
Encourage Critical Thinking: The White Rose Curriculum emphasises problem-solving and critical thinking skills, enabling students to question, investigate, and draw conclusions based on evidence.
Promote Engagement and Enjoyment: Through engaging and interactive lessons, we make science accessible and enjoyable for all students, fostering a positive attitude towards the subject.
Support Individual Growth: Our approach is inclusive and differentiated, catering to the diverse needs and abilities of our students, ensuring that every child can achieve their full potential.
How the White Rose Scheme Works
The White Rose Curriculum uses a 'small steps' approach to teaching science, breaking down complex concepts into manageable chunks. Each step is designed to build on previous knowledge, ensuring a deep and thorough understanding of scientific principles. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including:
Biology: Understanding living organisms, their habitats, life cycles, and the human body.
Chemistry: Exploring materials, their properties, changes, and the basics of chemical reactions.
Physics: Investigating forces, motion, energy, light, sound, and the Earth in space.
Each topic is taught through practical, hands-on activities that encourage students to engage with the material actively. The curriculum also includes detailed notes and guidance for teachers, insights on common misconceptions, key questions, and child-friendly definitions and images using visual systems and practical based activities.
Progression to Key Stage 3
As our pupils transition to Key Stage 3 in secondary school, we continue to build on the strong foundations established in primary. We ensure a smooth and gradual transition, allowing pupils to progress at their own pace according to their individual abilities. This approach helps to:
Ease the Transition: By gradually increasing the complexity of scientific concepts and skills, we help students adapt to the demands of secondary education without feeling overwhelmed.
Maintain Continuity: The White Rose Curriculum provides a seamless progression from primary to secondary, ensuring that students can build on their prior knowledge and continue to develop their scientific understanding.
Foster Confidence and Independence: Our supportive environment encourages students to take ownership of their learning, developing the confidence and independence needed to succeed in Key Stage 3 and beyond.
Our Commitment:
At The Windmill School, we believe that a strong foundation in science is essential for our learners to thrive in an ever-changing world. By following the White Rose Curriculum, we are dedicated to nurturing inquisitive minds and inspiring the scientists of tomorrow.