Ark Victoria Academy

At Ark Victoria, all pupils will learn to think scientifically by developing their enquiry skills through Biological, Chemical and Physical investigations.  We aim to encourage and nurture the curiosity our pupils inherently have, in helping them to make sense of their world and other natural phenomena.  We want our children to be able to explore, think critically, question, speak and write like a scientist and be able to transfer this skill across the subject disciplines, and through to their schooling career and beyond.  Our children will also understand and appreciate the role that science has in society, its importance, relevance and demand for the future in preparation for their role as global citizens. 

At Ark Victoria we have 6 curriculum pillars

Resilient readers: Scientific literacy and understanding complex technical terms is the foundation of the science curriculum. We enhance students ability to read and comprehend these words and concepts using the techniques of our school to support their journey as readers. The science curriculum aims to encourage students to read scientific articles and current research to develop their understanding of an ever changing world. This will ensure that students can access the curriculum as well as concepts that influence their lives.  

High quality teaching: High quality teaching in science. All teachers are experts in the modelling and teaching of biology, chemistry and physics. Working scientifically and mathematical skills are taught both explicitly and implicitly throughout pupils' educational journey. Teachers seek opportunities to link the sciences across the curriculum.

Knowledge rich curriculum: The science curriculum includes a broad range of concepts that allow students to develop and scaffold their understanding of the world through each key stage.  Our curriculum allows student critically evaluate concepts discussed in the world around them, this increases in complexity as our students get older.  

High ambition: The science curriculum challenges pupils at every stage of their journey through school. Students develop their knowledge through a variety of techniques whilst harnessing their curiosity towards scientific enquiry and procedures. Students will gain skills through scaffolded learning approaches in order to study at the highest level and their challenge point. Teachers will work to ensure that ambitious targets are met.  

Diverse and inclusive: The science curriculum introduces the work and careers of various scientists from all cultures in order appreciate the their journey to success. Our science curriculum also recognises the impact of ethics and belief systems, politics, popular culture and economics on students’ perceptions and allows them to explore alternative perspectives. They realise that many advances in the sciences and technology have borne consequences for us and our environment   

Strong Character: The science curriculum promotes traits like motivation, engagement, critical thinking, independence and curiosity in order to build a positive attitude towards learning over an extended period of time. Our students will recognise, respond, appreciate how science moulds their lives. Moreover, it will lead to habits of mind, habit to do, and finally build our students' character in order to become resilient and empathetic scientists of the future.   

Please read our Science Progression Narrative here: Discipline Concept Narratives