10 years of impact on teachers, pupils and schools - lessons in excellent science education

This Impact Summary, published in 2015, showed how for the previous ten years the National Science Learning Network had provided teachers, technicians and other educators with high impact, subject-specific professional development in science and other STEM subjects (science, technology, engineering and mathematics). The Network initially included the National Science Learning Centre, working with nine regional Centres, and since 2013 with 50 school-centred Science Learning Partnerships in England, and with partners in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

This report lists five key lessons the Network has learnt about driving educational improvement through subject-specific support in its first ten years, namely:

• sustained engagement of schools and colleges with Network support is associated with improved teaching and learning, and increased uptake and achievement in science
• network professional development improves teachers’ subject and pedagogical knowledge, skills and confidence, resulting in better outcomes for young people
• the Network develops strong leadership in science – from primary to post-16 – benefitting teachers, schools and young people
• engagement with the Network helps schools and colleges recruit and retain excellent teachers
• network professional development enriches teaching, supporting young people’s engagement, progression and awareness of STEM careers

This report proves, along with supporting evaluation and independent research evidence,  that together with teachers, school and college leaders, policymakers, funders, employers and others, the National STEM Learning Network can achieve its vision of a world-leading STEM education for all young people across the UK.