Science
Science at Upper Wharfedale Primary Federation
Be the Light – Illuminate Curiosity, Spark Discovery
At Upper Wharfedale Primary Federation, science is a dynamic and inspiring part of our curriculum. Guided by our ethos to Be the Light, we nurture inquisitive minds and encourage children to explore the world around them with wonder, purpose, and confidence.
From Big Questions to Bright Ideas
Science learning begins with our youngest pupils, who are encouraged to ask big questions and explore the answers through play, observation, and hands-on experiences. As children progress through school, their scientific thinking becomes more sophisticated, building on early curiosity with structured enquiry, practical investigations, and deeper conceptual understanding.
We aim to develop:
- A strong foundation of scientific knowledge and vocabulary.
- Skills in enquiry, reasoning, and problem-solving.
- Confidence to ask questions, test ideas, and reflect on findings.
Science Beyond the Classroom
We believe that science is best learned through experience. Our enrichment programme brings science to life through:
- Science Days & STEM Challenges – Whole-school events that promote creativity, teamwork, and real-world problem-solving.
- Enterprise Projects – Opportunities to apply scientific thinking in practical, purposeful contexts.
- Educational Visits – Trips to museums, nature reserves, and farms, including witnessing lambing, which offers a powerful insight into life cycles and animal care.
- Outdoor Learning – Regular exploration of our local environment fosters observation, environmental awareness
Connected Learning Across the Curriculum
Science at Upper Wharfedale is woven into the wider curriculum. Pupils make meaningful links with geography, maths, design & technology, computing, and PSHE, enriching their understanding and showing how science influences every aspect of life.
Lighting the Way Forward
Through our science provision, pupils become confident, curious learners who understand the importance of science in shaping the world. They learn to Be the Light — illuminating their own paths with knowledge, and inspiring others through their discoveries.
Progression Maps and Curriculum Intent
Science Long Term Plan october 2025
SCIENCE PROGRESSION OCTOBER 2025
Useful websites
A range of fun, hands-on activities for families to use at home, suitable for all ages from 4 to 16.
This site is filed with online science activities for toddlers and pre-schoolers.
https://littlebinsforlittlehands.com/30-preschool-science-experiments-for-the-young-scientist/
Curious kids turn into junior scientists with these preschool science experiments and beyond!
From science experiments to sensory explorations to STEM and STEAM activities, these science activities for young children are sure to be a hit!
Mystery Science offers free lessons broken down in year group levels on fun topics like, “Why are baby animals so cute?”
This website offers cool space-related videos and activities.
On this website you don’t need to log in. Just explore, have fun and learn some science along the way
https://www.howstuffworks.com/
How Stuff Works will keep curious kids entertained for hours.