Science

Science at Merlin is fun and dynamic. Our curriculum supports a practical approach, with an emphasis on experiment and activity right from Reception. Making the connection between people and science is a fundamental part of our teaching. Science enhances the curriculum and provides a sound context through which to explore concepts.
Film IconScience at Merlin

RECEPTION

Right from the word ‘go’ we immerse the children with investigations in Science. The Reception curriculum is very much based on practical sessions, with recording tasks in writing gradually introduced over the course of the year. Pupils are encouraged to observe in Science, in order to achieve the objective of getting them really excited about their learning. They investigate the world around them through topics such as the seasons, human senses, and the effects of heat and cold.

YEAR 1

Building on the Reception curriculum, the skills of scientific enquiry are further developed in Year 1 by including as many practical investigations as possible. Topics also encompass ‘Healthy Living’ themes and provide opportunities for the children to enjoy growing and studying plants.

YEAR 2

The principles of scientific enquiry continue to inform the Year 2 Science curriculum. Emphasis continues to lie in keeping the lessons as practical as possible. The importance of healthy living is reinforced along with investigations in new topics such as space and sound.

YEAR 3

Making the important connection between people and Science forms the basis of the Year 3 programme of study. The children continue to enjoy investigations and practical experiments. Pupils record their findings and use their observations to inform their opinions. Trips to London museums help support their learning.


Film IconYear 3 Dissection Lesson

Each year our Year 3 children enjoy a fantastic dissection lesson, generously led by one of our medically trained parents. This is a real highlight of the year and certainly one of the perks of being ‘top of the school’. Please see the video below for a glimpse into one of these special lessons.

Merlin School Science
Merlin School Science

“Merlin is the most wonderful, nurturing and loving school where every child is made to feel special and reach their full potential.”

Parent of a child in Reception

“The teachers and staff at Merlin exude oodles of positivity and encouragement and both of my children bounce into school every day.”

Parent of children in Reception and Year 2

“A Merlin child is happy, polite and kind.”

Parent

“The Merlin School has been outstanding for both of my boys. It has cared for them both in a nourishing fashion, taught them to be confident and kind and really opened their minds to the world around them.”

Parent

“Merlin School encourages children of all abilities to be the best they can be in a kind and nurturing environment. The teachers really inspire the children to love learning, our son is so happy there.”

Parent, Year 1

“Merlin is a truly special place and I can only hope that my boys will continue to carry the Merlin Spirit with them for the years to come. “Having a go” and embracing new challenges becomes second nature, fostering a love of learning. I just wish they had an upper school!”

Parent

“Merlin is truly magical because the kind and supportive staff understand children and make learning fun. Our boys have loved their time at Merlin.”

Parent

“We first saw Merlin school after we had visited a couple of schools looking for a school where our daughter would be happy. After visiting Merlin we had no doubts - our daughter spent three very happy years here. When time came our son went to Merlin school as well. It is so important that in the very beginning of their school years kids are introduced to the magic of learning with love and care. It is exactly what Merlin school does. We are very grateful to all the teachers and staff for their amazing work!”

Parent

“Induction into reception is managed exceptionally well. Our daughter has had a really happy experience starting school.”

Parent

“The Merlin School has been outstanding for both of my boys. It has cared for them both in a nourishing fashion, taught them to be confident and kind and really opened their minds to the world around them.”

Parent

"My daughter joined Merlin in Reception and has not looked back since. She came out of the school on Day 1 with a huge smile on her face and she has always been excited to go in and learn every single day. Over the years, I have watched her gain confidence, speak her mind, be kind and apply the Merlin principles at every opportunity."  
 
Parent, Year 3 
"Staying on for Year 3 was the best decision I have made.  Not only has my daughter learnt so much academically, passed her assessment for the school she wanted with the support of her teachers but most importantly she has developed into a young lady I am so proud of; kind, energetic, positive, inquisitive and excited to learn and achieve more. I greatly attribute these characteristics to the nurturing, personalised, gentle, encouraging and kind approach that this school takes towards its pupils."
 
Parent, Year 3 

"I would like to thank every single teacher and staff member for making all this look so effortless ..... such a bright team of educators, placing Merlin at the top of schools I would recommend to any family."

Parent, Year 3