Science at Pownall Hall is purposeful, practical and taught properly.
From the earliest years, children learn that science is not something to memorise, but something to do. They investigate, test ideas, use real equipment and learn to explain what they have discovered. By the time they leave in Form 6, pupils feel confident, capable and well prepared for senior school science – both in the classroom and in the laboratory.
Our specialist-led approach, combined with exceptional facilities, allows science to be taught in depth, with clarity and ambition, while remaining accessible and enjoyable for every child.
Science is taught by a specialist teacher from Form 1 onwards in our purpose-built science laboratory, completed in 2023.
The lab rivals those found in many senior schools and is fully equipped for biology, chemistry and physics, including:
microscopes and data loggers
a full-size skeleton and anatomical models
gas taps for practical chemistry
electrical points for physics experiments
This allows children to work safely, confidently and independently with real scientific equipment, developing correct habits from an early age.
Lessons are practical wherever possible, with a strong focus on:
planning investigations
making predictions
recording results clearly
explaining outcomes using accurate scientific vocabulary
Science at Pownall goes beyond the minimum curriculum, giving pupils time to explore ideas in greater depth and develop the working skills expected at senior school.
Mrs Kirsty Dalton – Bsc (Hons) Biomedical Science, PGCE
Science has always been at the heart of Mrs Dalton’s teaching.
After studying Biomedical Science at Glasgow University, she spent ten years teaching science at secondary level in London before joining Pownall Hall. She now teaches Science from Form 1 through to Form 6, bringing senior school expertise into a prep school setting.
Mrs Dalton is passionate about helping children feel confident in science. Her lessons are structured, practical and engaging, ensuring pupils understand not only what happens in an experiment, but why it happens. Under her guidance, children build secure knowledge, strong investigative skills and pride in their growing independence.
In EYFS, science forms part of Understanding the World. Children observe changes, ask questions and explore how things work through play, discussion and hands-on experiences. Whether investigating melting ice, planting seeds or exploring natural materials outdoors, early scientific thinking is woven naturally into daily learning.
From Form 1, children begin to work more independently. They carry out simple investigations, use basic equipment and record findings in tables or drawings. Lessons introduce scientific vocabulary clearly and consistently, helping children explain what they observe and begin to make predictions.
In Prep, science becomes increasingly structured and rigorous. Pupils plan fair tests, identify variables and write methods, results and conclusions with growing accuracy. Practical work remains central, with regular use of the science lab and specialist equipment.
Children learn to analyse results, evaluate investigations and explain their thinking clearly – skills that are essential for senior school science and beyond.
Science at Pownall is enriched through:
Science Club and STEM Club
National competitions, including British Science Week
Outdoor investigations using the Forest School area and wildlife pond
Educational visits that connect classroom learning to the wider world
These opportunities allow pupils with particular interest or aptitude to stretch themselves further, while keeping science engaging and relevant for all.
2022
Purpose-built science laboratory completed
F1-F6
Weekly specialist teacher led lessons
1
Wildlife pond
£20k+
2025 investment in STEM equipment
By the end of Form 6, pupils leave Pownall:
confident working in a science laboratory
familiar with specialist equipment and safe practice
secure in scientific vocabulary and explanation
experienced in planning and evaluating investigations
They arrive at senior school ready to succeed, not needing to catch up.
More importantly, they leave with the confidence to question, investigate and think logically – skills that will serve them well far beyond science lessons
Explore the next subject in the Pownall curriculum or arrange a visit to see Science lessons in action.
