Science
Science at Merebrook is taught so that children can develop both their science knowledge and the skills required to work scientifically. The curriculum is Carefully sequenced to align with the national curriculum. Skills are embedded in classroom practice through practical, enquiry-based science. It is designed to nurture independent, critical thinkers who are capable of planning, conducting, and evaluating their own scientific investigations.
Early Years
In the early years, children develop curiosity about the natural world through sensory exploration and observation. They learn to respect living things, care for plants and animals, and begin to understand life cycles and changes in nature, including seasonal shifts. Scientific thinking is encouraged through child-initiated play and structured experiences such as planting seeds, exploring materials, and observing wildlife. Enquiry activities include recognising animal features, exploring habitats, identifying materials, and investigating weather. Foundational vocabulary (e.g. leaf, hard, smooth, seasons) and concepts (e.g. healthy eating, basic body parts, habitats) are introduced, preparing children for more structured science learning in Key Stage 1.
Year 1:
In Year 1, pupils expand on their observational and enquiry skills by studying plants, animals, materials, and seasonal changes. They learn to name and classify common plants and trees, identify animals including their diets and body structures, and explore basic materials and their properties. Pupils are introduced to human body parts and senses, observe weather patterns across the seasons, and begin grouping and classifying natural and man-made objects. Scientific enquiry is developed through outdoor learning, simple tests, pattern seeking, and data recording. Vocabulary is broadened significantly, and pupils begin using tools and diagrams to record and communicate findings.
Year 2:
By Year 2, pupils build on prior knowledge to explore plant growth, human and animal life cycles, material properties and their uses, and how habitats support living things. They investigate how plants grow under different conditions, understand the basic needs of humans and animals, compare and test materials for specific purposes, and explore food chains and microhabitats. Pupils carry out simple comparative tests, observe changes over time, ask questions, and use observations to suggest answers. Scientific vocabulary becomes more precise, and pupils begin to apply knowledge in practical contexts, showing greater independence and reasoning in scientific enquiry.