Senior technicians accredited co-leaders in science (STACS) NY600 / B17

“It was a lot of hard work but the benefits have been extremely valuable as I progress in my career. It builds confidence in dealing with people outside the department and outside of school. The course content is really well suited to the job that technicians do but the skills can be transferred to other jobs or roles within school. I would recommend STACS to anyone who is looking to progress in their career”

Past participant

“I have streamlined my service and made positive changes that have encouraged the teachers to also reflect and change on their own practices; this has led to better organisation and an increase in practical activities for the pupils. I have been more confidently involved in social technician networks online and more active in communicating between technicians across the borough and wider region. This is due to an increase in my confidence in my own skills and knowledge, and in being able to accept and understand that the gaps in my knowledge and experience are not failings but opportunities to reach out and communicate and learn from one another.”

Past participant

This accredited course is designed for senior technicians, or those aspiring to the role, who are responsible for managing the technical services within their science department. This course will provide you with the strategies and ideas for leading and running a science department technical service, so that you are able to deliver an effective service, support engaging practical work, work with large numbers of colleagues and keep abreast of changes within the profession.

All participants on this course should have at least three years’ experience as a school or college technician. They will be senior technicians, or be aspiring to this role. All participants must be supported by a named supporter in their school.

The course explores four key themes:

• you as a Leader
• working in Teams
• leadership of Continuing Professional Development
• management of a Technical Service

You will complete four modules by attending three residential periods and completing subsequent tasks during personal study blocks. Attendance at all three residential blocks is obligatory.

Please be aware that the accredited nature of this course means that it differs from many others that we offer.

This accredited course runs throughout the academic year from October to the end of June. During this time there are three residential periods that you have to attend at the National STEM Learning Centre. Between these residential periods are personal study blocks. You will complete tasks (supported by structured workbooks and online activities) back at your school or college. These tasks involve written assignments for assessment. More details about these can be found in the handbook. Guidance and support in producing these pieces of work is an integral part of the course.

Successful completion of the course leads to the award of University Certificate in Science Education and Leadership (Science Technician) from the University of York. This is a 60 credit university qualification at NQF Level 4 (FHEQ Level C). (Work is at the level of first year undergraduate studies.)

We recommend that you download this example course handbook (please note this is subject to minor changes for the 2017-18 academic year).

This course includes an online component to extend and embed your CPD. It will provide you with support whilst back at school or college, and enable you to collaborate with others and to share experiences and resources. You will receive support to enable you to complete your action plan or gap task and you will also be able to access the online learning community after this period. The online component is an integral part of the course and has been included in the fee and the associated ENTHUSE Bursary. Normal terms and conditions apply.

This is a residential course, fees include meals and accommodation for the duration of the course. Please contact enquiries@stem.org.uk for more information.