Jane Turner Snap Science Series Editor
You might have seen that the DfE released their Curriculum and Assessment Interim Report on March 18th. It’s part of a bigger review of the National Curriculum, with changes expected to come in 2026. The aim? To keep the curriculum fresh, relevant, and responsive to the world we’re teaching in.
Led by Professor Becky Francis, the review shares the same goals we had when creating the new Second Edition of Snap Science. We wanted to take something already strong and make it even better – more closely aligned with current challenges, more responsive to environmental and technological change, and even more supportive of great teaching and learning.
What’s new in Snap Science and how does it fit with where the curriculum is heading?
Stronger Knowledge Progression
We’ve taken every science objective in the National Curriculum and broken it down into smaller, carefully sequenced steps. This helps children build a deep, secure understanding over time. Ofsted has highlighted this kind of clear progression as key to good science teaching.
We’ve also mapped out the disciplinary knowledge – the skills and ways of working scientifically – that children need to master. That includes things like using equipment properly, planning fair tests, and understanding how scientists ask questions and gather evidence.
Teaching That Works
Ofsted has noted that science teaching often lacks subject-specific strategies. We wanted to change that. Drawing on decades of classroom experience and the latest research, we’ve built a wide toolkit of teaching approaches into every Snap Science lesson.
You’ll find practical work, demonstrations, enquiry-based learning, drama, vocabulary work, and more – all chosen to help children really get to grips with science concepts and skills in a way that’s meaningful and engaging.
Science for Everyone
Every child should feel that science is for them – whatever their background or starting point. That’s why Snap Science lessons include lots of opportunities for children to bring their own experiences to the table. Examples are inclusive, and support is built in so every child can access the learning. The series also highlights a diverse group of contemporary scientists, showcasing women and individuals from a variety of different backgrounds.
We also think carefully about what ‘home learning’ really means – we don’t assume every child has access to a garden, internet, or extra resources. And when we talk about science beyond the classroom, we focus on real, relatable opportunities, not just a list of famous scientists.
A Focus on Sustainability
Sustainability runs throughout Snap Science. Children learn about environmental issues and conservation in meaningful ways and are encouraged to think critically about the choices they make. We want them to feel empowered to take positive, informed action – both now and in the future.
In short, Snap Science is built for today’s classrooms and tomorrow’s curriculum. Whether or not big changes come in 2026, you can be confident that Snap Science gives you what you need to teach primary science that’s relevant, inclusive, and grounded in the best evidence we’ve got.
Jane Turner (Associate Professor, BA (Hons), PGCE, MED, CSCITEACH) has taught in primary schools in Hertfordshire and London. She is the co-founder of the Primary Science Quality Mark, based at the University of Hertfordshire, is immediate past chair of the Associate of Science Education, and has been a consultant to the DfE, BBC, EEF, Wellcome Trust, Learned Societies and industry on primary science assessment and curriculum. She is also the series editor for Snap Science. Visit collins.co.uk/SnapScience to learn more.
DfE Curriculum and Assessment Interim Report - https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/6821d69eced319d02c9060e3/Curriculum_and_Assessment_Review_interim_report.pdf
Ofsted subject review for science - https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/subject-report-series-science/finding-the-optimum-the-science-subject-report--2