The classrooms of Dover Park Primary School in Ryde were recently transformed into bustling laboratories for a spectacular, school-wide ‘Science Day’ dedicated to a single, powerful theme: Curiosity.
The result was a school bursting with innovation and questioning.
The excitement kicked off with a jaw-dropping assembly led by Dover Park’s inspirational Science Leader, Mrs Newnham, which then, through hands-on experimentation, turned the hall into a scene filled with the awe and wonder of science.
Following the explosive introduction, the normal timetable focused purely on science. Every year group, from Reception to Year 6, spent the day immersed in practical investigations, from taking to the great outdoors on woodland walks to testing high-flying rockets to testing the suitability of materials and singing catchy science songs.
Reception and key stage 1 students used these lessons to test high-flying rockets as well as to embed their learning, while key Stage 2 investigated forensic fingerprinting, tested materials, investigated the workings of helicopters, designed kites and engineered bespoke boats to hold the heaviest weights.
Furthermore, in an impressive display of empathy, pupils also designed games suitable for a range of disabilities.
Mrs Newnham said:
“We wanted to ignite a spark of curiosity in every single child today”
Article continues below this advertisement “By showing them the magic of science first-hand, we encourage them to become lifelong questioners.”
Dover Park’s commitment to collaboration with the school community was on display as the school welcomed Year 3 parents into the classrooms, joining their children for a special, hands-on learning session, the visit was part of the school’s highly successful, regular programme of parent workshops.
The real judges of the day, however, were the pupils.
Buddy from year 1 said:
“I loved making the rockets best!”
Casey from Year 4 said:
“We had to change the shape to see if it would go further.”
“Designing games for people with disabilities made us think really hard.
“Science is about solving real problems.”
This immersive day reflects Dover Park’s drive for children to live and breathe the school values of enjoy, belong and believe.
Headteacher Mr Kirby looked back on the event and said:
“Our pupils enjoyed the thrill of discovery, felt a deep sense of belonging as they collaborated with peers and parents and were left believing in their own incredible potential as the scientists of tomorrow.
“I am incredibly proud of our community.”
