Foreword

The Solomon Islands Education System is currently undergoing significant restructuring and reform in response to the needs identified through the development of the Education Sector Investment and Reform Programme (ESIRP) and Education Strategic Plans (ESP). Curriculum Review and Reform Program (CRRP) is a process identified to develop a comprehensive curriculum that is fair and responsive to the needs of all Solomon Islanders in order to achieve the vision and national goals of the education system advocated in the National Education Action Plans (NEAP 2007 – 2009 & 2010 – 2012) and Education Strategic Framework (2007 – 2015).

The new Primary Science Syllabus is to be used by Primary School teachers to teach Years 1 to 6 in the primary schools in Solomon Islands. It is developed as a guiding framework to meet the teaching and learning needs in all primary schools. The programme of study presented in this syllabus contributes significantly towards the holistic development of the learner as an individual and the achievement of human integral development.

This is a key document and it forms the basis of the curriculum shift from a curriculum defined in terms of subject content to a curriculum defined in terms of what learners are expected to know, understand, be able to do, appreciate and value. This is an Outcomes Based Education model and curriculum approach based on the achievement of learning outcomes through a learner centred, problem posing and the use of multiple intelligence education philosophy.

This syllabus builds upon concepts, skills, attitudes and values from the primary science learning as well as from the learners home environment and links them to the concepts, skills, attitudes and values in this syllabus. It also forms a background for further learning beyond year 6 as well as preparing the individual learners for future life in the Solomon Islands.

The Development and implementation of this syllabus is a step towards providing relevant and meaningful learning experiences for our children. It is important that all policy makers, teachers, education authorities and other important education stakeholders support the implementation of this syllabus.

As the Minister responsible for the provision of education services in the Solomon Islands, I commend and endorse this syllabus as the official document for teaching and learning of Science in Primary Schools throughout the Solomon Islands.

Hon. Reuben Inoana Dick Ha’amori
Honourable Minister of Education, 2013
Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development