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Science at Home!

As parents you play a significant role in helping our young scientists to develop scientific thinking skills. You can promote their curiosity through non-fiction literature, visits to museums, or simply going on an observation walk! Also, encourage them to ask questions and investigate the natural world around them. We have an exciting year ahead of us, full of wonder and discovery!

Science Ambassadors

Well done to Isaac and Oscar from Year 6 who have been chosen to be St Joseph's Science Ambassadors!

This is a new role and involves lots of responsibilities such as helping with science equipment and resources and helping to improve and maximise opportunities for scientific learning within our school

Our school is very proud to have registered as an Eco School which recognises our commitment to developing strategies that sustain and enhance resources and the environment. It is led by the children and Mrs Harrand. As a team we decide what we need to look at in order to help us remain an Eco Friendly school. We discuss ways to help children recycle, save energy and help the environment.

St. Joseph’s Awarded Primary Science Quality Mark

In September Primary Science Quality Marks have been awarded to 230 infant, junior, primary, middle and special schools to celebrate a commitment to excellence in science teaching and learning.  So far, since its national launch in 2010, over 3000 schools across the UK have achieved the award.

The Primary School Quality Mark scheme enables schools to work together to share good practice and is supported by professional development led by local experts. It encourages teacher autonomy and innovation while at the same time offering a clear framework for development in science subject leadership, teaching and learning.

The Primary Science Quality Mark is led by the University of Hertfordshire, School of Education in collaboration with the Primary Science Teaching Trust.

Jane Turner, PSQM National Director said: “Gaining a Primary Science Quality Award is a significant achievement for a school.  The profile and quality of science teaching and learning in each awarded school is very high. Children are engaging with great science both in and outside the classroom, developing positive attitudes towards science as well as secure scientific understanding and skills. Science subject leaders, their colleagues, head teachers, children, parents and governors should be very proud.”

Once again St Joseph’s have been fortunate to have been selected to join the Polar explorer Programme (PEP). The Polar Explorer Programme will encourage and support St Joseph’s staff to enrich their teaching of STEM subjects, placing relevant curriculum topics within the context of the construction and launch of the ship, and of polar exploration in general. Engagement with PEP leads to increases in pupils’ confidence in learning science and in scientific enquiry skills.