Biology Teacher/TA/subject leader – science curriculum workshops in conjunction with Diverse Academies RK198 / A32

‘The Teacher/TA/SL meetings provide teachers (and others) with a selection of practical ideas and activities relevant to specific key stages and year groups – combining working scientifically (disciplinary knowledge) and content (substantive knowledge).  With a focus on the direct teaching of skills and enquiry methods, appropriate to age and stage and in response to gaps identified by schools post-Covid, these sessions should provide those attending with a chance to reflect on teaching and learning in science and suggest potential changes to practice where needed.’

Designed to improve the knowledge, understanding and skills of teachers, teaching assistants and subject leaders and enable highly productive practical science in the classroom.

This year, our Key Stage based Teacher/TA/SL meetings will have a focus on getting children working scientifically with purpose.  Each session will look at content relevant to the KS (or part KS), reinforce the need for clear progression and the direct teaching of skills and methods of enquiry, with a view to equipping the children with an ‘enquiry toolbox’ that they can use independently and with confidence by the time they reach UKS2.  This focus has been identified through discussion with teachers and SLs.  It is widely felt to be of concern on children’s return to more normal learning, post-Covid and home schooling and is an area of interest to Ofsted.

As ever, plenty of practical ideas and useful strategies will be included to take back, use and/or share with colleagues.’