Oak National Academy
Oak National Academy
Teachers
Pupils

KS1 & KS2 Science

Overview

Curriculum explainer

Our curriculum is built upon the exploration of big questions such as "What are living things and what are they made of?". Each unit develops scientific concepts within the national curriculum, and employs the latest research-based pedagogical strategies to address common misconceptions while enhancing pupils’ scientific knowledge and vocabulary effectively. Units are organised into threads for each big question, providing a cohesive and seamless transition between key stages and establishing a clear trajectory for learning progression. At every key stage, units within each thread progressively tackle a big question in a meaningful and age-appropriate manner, delving deeper into answers as pupils advance through the curriculum. The curriculum also emphasises the development of practical and fieldwork skills, mathematical proficiencies, and an understanding of scientific practices, all while embracing diversity as a fundamental principle woven into its fabric.

Subject principles

  • There will be a focus on building knowledge of key concepts in a way that reflects how knowledge is organised in the three scientific disciplines.
  • Content will pair substantive and disciplinary knowledge particularly around practical work.
  • Lessons will use a ‘big ideas’ approach to developing subject concepts.
  • Where there is a practical focus, it builds knowledge through the use of carefully planned and purposeful practical activities.
  • Where maths is taught or used in science, alignment with the sequence, language and approach used in the maths curriculum is considered.
Logo for The Centre for Industry Education Collaboration (CIEC)

Our curriculum partner

The Centre for Industry Education Collaboration (CIEC), from the University of York, are passionate about excellence in primary science teaching and learning, increasing children's and teachers' awareness of STEM careers and industries, and raising children's science capital. They have collaborated with the University of York Science Education Group (UYSEG) to develop primary-focused Best Evidence Science Teaching (BEST).