Science at Stamford Junior School – curiosity, challenge and a national quality mark

At Stamford Junior School science is central to how children learn about the world. It sits at the heart of enquiry, reasoning and hands-on discovery from Year 3 through to Year 6. Under the leadership of Mrs Britton, our science curriculum is ambitious, evidence-informed and designed to develop scientific thinking that stays with pupils long after they leave us.

Science here is not about worksheets alone. Pupils investigate real questions, design and test their own ideas, and connect learning across subjects. Whether modelling habitats in Year 3, exploring forces in Year 4 or investigating electricity in Year 6, our lessons put pupils in charge of their own curiosity. Practical work, field studies and challenge projects are the norm, not the exception. Teachers plan to deepen conceptual understanding and make the thinking visible, so children build secure scientific foundations.

This year, that commitment has been recognised with the award of the Primary Science Quality Mark (PSQM), a nationally respected accreditation that celebrates excellence in primary science teaching and leadership. PSQM is a year-long professional development and quality assurance programme that supports science subject leaders to raise the profile and quality of science across the whole school. It involves structured self-evaluation, collaborative planning, expert mentoring and reflective evidence of impact. Schools that meet rigorous criteria demonstrate sustained improvement in science leadership, teaching and learning.

Mrs Britton’s leadership was pivotal in securing the PSQM award for Stamford Junior School. She worked with colleagues across the school to audit current practice, shape a clear development plan and embed high-quality science provision in every classroom. The PSQM process ensured we looked critically at intent, implementation and impact, and aligned our curriculum with best-practice research and contemporary science education standards.

For pupils, the benefits are already clear. Engagement with scientific enquiry is high, confidence in reasoning is growing and children articulate what they are learning and why it matters. Beyond lessons, science clubs, visits and challenge days give pupils the chance to stretch themselves and celebrate their achievements. Parents and governors alike have been enthusiastic partners in this work.

The PSQM award reflects the whole-school commitment to science: confident subject leadership, skilled teaching, rich learning experiences and a culture where questioning is encouraged. The mark is valid for three years and provides a platform for continued improvement and even greater ambition in the years ahead.

Stamford Junior School will continue to build on this foundation, ensuring that every child not only meets but exceeds expectations in science, and leaves with the confidence to question, test and innovate.