Science & Discovery
Curious, questioning, and ready to explore the world
Science, History, Geography and Computing — four subjects that build knowledge of the natural, historical, geographical and digital world, and develop the critical thinking skills children need for life.
We want children to leave Pallister Park knowing how to ask good questions, investigate carefully, and think critically about the world around them — skills that will serve them in any subject, any career, and any stage of life.
Science
Curious minds and rigorous thinking
At Pallister Park Primary School, we recognise science as a core, integral part of the National Curriculum and give the teaching and learning of science the prominence it requires. We follow the 2014 National Curriculum, which ensures all children develop scientific knowledge through the disciplines of biology, chemistry and physics; build understanding of the nature, processes and methods of science; and are equipped with the knowledge required to understand the uses and implications of science today and in the future.
Our children begin their science journey in EYFS, where they explore and make sense of the world around them. Their curiosity is nurtured and they are encouraged to ask questions and make discoveries for themselves. The intent is that the children carry this mindset into KS1 and KS2, where they continue to attain the knowledge and understanding they need to find answers and make connections.
Alongside knowledge, children progressively develop their working scientifically skills and learn to carry out different types of scientific enquiry. Each year, children build upon their previous learning and experiences to expand their scientific vocabulary and develop their independence and confidence in leading investigations. Our children also learn about diversity within science, explore scientific careers, and discover scientists who have shaped — and are currently shaping — the world we live in.
History
Making sense of the world through the past
At Pallister Park Primary we aim to deliver a high-quality, broad history curriculum which inspires our pupils’ curiosity to know more about the past. With our teaching of history, we intend to help children make sense of the world in which they live and develop a greater understanding of their identity, both within their local community and the wider world.
In line with the National Curriculum, children build a coherent and chronological understanding of the past in Britain, their locality and the wider world. They understand how past events have influenced and formed their present lives, and appreciate how the world has changed over time. Our history curriculum, underpinned by British Values, encourages children to appreciate diversity and is designed to be fully inclusive for every child.
In addition to historical knowledge, we intend our children to develop transferable skills including the ability to think critically, ask perceptive questions, interrogate sources, appreciate different viewpoints and communicate their ideas effectively. We want our children to love history, learn from the past and be equipped with the knowledge and skills to face challenges in Key Stage 3 and beyond.
Geography
Understanding our place in the world
Geography is a valued part of the curriculum, providing a purposeful means for exploring, appreciating and understanding the world in which we live and how it has evolved. Geography explores the relationship between the Earth and its people through the study of place, space and environment — from our own local area to the world beyond.
In KS1 and KS2, we use the Oddizzi scheme of work and resources to ensure we offer curriculum breadth, coverage and a structure that enables clear progression in both knowledge and skills. Prior to this, within the Early Years Foundation Stage, geography is included as part of Understanding the World. Children learn to investigate similarities and differences, the local environment, and cultures and beliefs — fostering the skills essential to developing geographical understanding.
Computing
Masters of technology — not slaves to it
At Pallister Park Primary School, we want pupils to be masters of technology and not slaves to it. Technology is everywhere and will play a pivotal part in our pupils’ lives. Therefore, we want to model and educate our pupils on how to use technology positively, responsibly and safely. We want our pupils to be creators, not consumers — and we use the ‘ICT with Mr P’ approach to ensure we offer a broad and engaging computing curriculum, encompassing computer science, information technology and digital literacy.
We acknowledge that technology continuously evolves, and it is our intent to continue to respond and adapt to this evolution by regularly reviewing our programme of study. Our knowledge-rich curriculum is balanced with the opportunity for pupils to apply their knowledge creatively — helping our pupils become skilful computer scientists. We also encourage staff to embed computing across the whole curriculum, making learning creative and accessible.
Our computing learning begins in Reception and continues each year through to Year 6. The intent is that pupils become confident and effective creators with the ability to use technology well both now and in the future — and that they understand there is always a choice in how and whether technology is used.
“The important thing is not to stop questioning. Curiosity has its own reason for existence.” — Albert Einstein