At Fonthill Primary Academy, Science is taught through the CUSP curriculum, which is designed to develop pupils’ curiosity, knowledge and understanding of the world around them.

The curriculum is carefully sequenced using a cumulative and revisited approach, allowing pupils to return to key concepts over time and build secure foundations in science.

Pupils learn across the three main domains of science: biology, chemistry and physics, with connections deliberately made between them to support a coherent understanding.

A strong emphasis is placed on both:

• substantive knowledge – the scientific facts, concepts and vocabulary pupils need to know
• disciplinary knowledge – working scientifically, including how to investigate, question and interpret evidence

Each unit is structured around key learning questions, with knowledge carefully broken down into small, manageable steps. This ensures that pupils build understanding over time and can confidently apply their learning.

Vocabulary is explicitly taught in every lesson, enabling pupils to explain their ideas clearly and engage in scientific discussion. Opportunities for talk and collaboration are built into lessons, helping pupils to develop confidence in sharing their thinking. 

Learning is supported through clear structures, including Knowledge Notes and regular retrieval practice, ensuring that key knowledge is retained over time.

Through our science curriculum, we aim to develop curious, knowledgeable and reflective learners who ask questions, think critically and understand how science shapes the world around them.

Science: Frequently Asked Questions

What do children learn in Science?
Children learn about key scientific concepts across biology, chemistry and physics, as well as developing skills in investigation and enquiry.

How is Science taught?
Science is taught through carefully sequenced units, where learning builds over time and key concepts are revisited to support understanding.

Do children carry out practical work?
Yes. Children regularly take part in practical investigations, helping them to develop their understanding of scientific processes and build enquiry skills.

What is “working scientifically”?
This refers to the skills children use in science, such as asking questions, observing, testing ideas and interpreting results.

How do you help children remember what they have learned?
Key knowledge and vocabulary are revisited regularly, and retrieval activities are used to help pupils embed their learning in long-term memory.

How are children supported in Science?
Teachers use structured lessons, modelling, scaffolded resources and explicit vocabulary teaching to ensure all pupils can access and succeed.