In RNSF we are going full STEAM ahead with an educational approach to learning that uses Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts and Mathematics as access points to inspire enquiry, communication, and critical thinking

STEAM gives children the skills to succeed in a rapidly changing technology-based economy, providing a platform to explore learning in a fun, engaging, child led way.

For example in a Fairy Tale or Plants unit we may ask the question….

• Can you create a catapult to help Jack get up the Beanstalk quicker?
• How can you make him go higher?  Further?
• How far did he travel?
• Can you make his journey safer?
• What could you do to improve your catapult?
• Which material would make the best landing?
• How can we record what we have done?
• Can you share what you have discovered?

With questions as a starting point and no right or wrong answer children flourish, feeling in control of their curriculum and enthused and empowered to launch into their learning.

RNSF Science Statement web

Science Curriculum coverage & progression map web

RNS science-knowledge-progression web

STEAM News

As part of our science unit on plants the children in year three successfully managed to complete a cycle of field to fork, a concept that encompasses the various stages of food production and consumption, emphasising a more direct connection between the production of food and its consumption on our plates.

The children cleared the raised beds.  Germinated seeds in the classroom and transplanted them once they were strong enough and the weather was kinder.  Over the summer term they kept the beds weeded and ensured that the plants had enough water during drier weeks.

In the Autumn term we were able to harvest 5 pumpkins and a wheelbarrow full of squashes, potatoes, gourds and sweetcorn.  Once back in the classroom the food was cleaned, peeled, chopped and cooked into a scrumptious vegetable soup that was eaten by the whole school as part of our harvest festival celebrations.

The food was organic, had zero air miles and cost the price of a few packets of seeds.

We also harvested seeds from the vegetables as we prepared them to begin the cycle again every year!