At Ganton School, we recognise the importance of Science in every aspect of daily life. Through our science curriculum we aim to increase students’ knowledge and understanding of the world around them as well as developing the useful skills associated with working scientifically and the process of scientific enquiry. Our Science curriculum will nurture and develop the natural curiosity of our students, it will encourage respect for all living things and the natural environment as well as providing exciting opportunities to get ‘hands on’ with Science through exploration and experiments.
At Ganton our Science curriculum offers opportunities for the students to develop their understanding of the natural world including natural phenomena and natural resources. We aim to develop students understanding of materials both natural and man-made and the properties of these materials. We endeavour to develop student’s ability to work scientifically, promoting problem solving skills and the process of scientific enquiry to answer questions about the world around them.
Throughout we will foster a love of nature and build on students’ knowledge of plants, animals, humans and the natural environment. We want to give our pupils the skills and knowledge to be able to care for their environment and all that lives within it. We aim to develop a respect for materials and the equipment they handle with regard to their own, and others safety that will serve them well as they prepare for adulthood.
Where appropriate, we will work towards the national curriculum for Science, this will be at a pace and level which meets the needs of our learners. The science curriculum will be linked where possible to the themed topics in KS1 and 2. As students move into KS3 and 4 Science will be delivered through specific units of work, which reflect a balanced program of study and focus on key knowledge.
Science curriculum for the Sensory Explorer
For students in this pathway Science will revolve around the ‘here and now’ and will be represented through concrete objects, tasks and activities. It will be hands on exploration of materials through sensory play or small group work. Science sessions will be student led and will follow the individual’s interests, this will help improve engagement and encourage essential communication and interaction skills. Opportunities to explore natural phenomena and be outside in the natural environment will be essential to develop students understanding of the world around them.
Science curriculum for those who are preparing for independence
Students will begin to be introduced to some scientific concepts and ways of working scientifically to discover the answer to questions. Science will be hands on as much as possible, and the focus will continue to be understanding the world around them, including plants, animals and every day materials. Wherever possible science will be linked to finding answers and solutions to real life questions or problems. Students will be taught practical problem solving skills and will have a greater understanding of living things and their environments.
Science curriculum for those who are able to plan for independence
Students in this pathway will be introduced to more formal elements of science. They will work towards the national curriculum and will follow specifically designed units of work to provide them with a broad understanding of scientific concepts. There will be lots of opportunities for hands on experiments that will develop their skills in working scientifically and promote problem solving abilities. Students will need to consider how to stay safe using equipment and understand basic safety procedures.
