This report from Ofsted draws on the results of visits by inspectors to 94 primary, 94 secondary schools and two special schools between June 2007 and March 2010. These schools were selected broadly to represent the profile of schools in England, but excluded schools in Ofsted’s categories of concern. It also draws...

This report, published by the Science and Engineering Education Advisory Group in January 2012, addresses many of the challenges and opportunities arising in implementation of the Scottish Curriculum for Excellence (CfE) as it affects the delivery of STEM education and engagement. It examines the ways in which STEM...

This research, commissioned by the Wellcome trust, was undertaken by an interdisciplinary team led by Ralph Levinson and Dr Sheila Turner at the Institute of Education, University of London between May 1st and December 1st 1999.

The project reports on five main areas:

• The perceived importance...

Produced by the Department for Children Schools and Families and the Qualifications and Curriculum Development Agency, this 2010 document lays out the size, nature and procedures around the sample of Key Stage Two science tests that was implemented after testing of all students was discontinued in 2009.

Produced in 1992, this Department for Education and Science and HM Inspectorate document evaluates the response of schools to the National Curriculum requirements for technology since its introduction in 1990. The report is based on the inspection of 884 schools: 438 secondary, 25 middle, 398 primary and 23 special...

Following the establishment of the 1989/90 National Curriculum for Design and Technology, the Secretary of State for Education and Science and Secretary of State for Wales made proposals regarding the revision of the National Curriculum for Design and Technology.

The key proposals were:
*the number of...

Produced in 1982, this Department for Education and Science and HM Inspectorate booklet describes some aspects of technological studies in 90 schools in England and Wales. It gives information about the structure, content and organisation of courses in technology, and about some other ways in which schools...

Published in June 2002, this article, by Shirley Simon, looks at applying Cognitive Acceleration through Science Education (CASE) theory to planning and teaching Thinking Science lessons for students with different needs.

Using Thinking Science with mixed-ability classes can be challenging...

This booklet examines the development of engineering expertise and makes recommendations on ways to harness, encourage, facilitate and reward it. Covering all Key Stages from Foundation Stage to post-16 and higher education, the booklet states the case for design and technology in schools to encourage an...

This resource, published in 1985, was the second in a series of discussion documents published by HM Inspectorate intended to stimulate debate about the National Curriculum in primary and secondary schools. It suggests an approach to teaching a broad, balanced, inclusive curriculum for all students.

The...

This report was intended to provide a longer term perspective on changes taking place in students’ understanding over the compulsory school years. The topic of air was chosen on the basis both of its importance throughout school science and its accessibility to students...

Ofsted survey report investigating why many of the most able students from non-selective schools fail to achieve their potential.

This article, by L. Chapman, published in June 2002,  presents a small-scale case study of science assessment for students with special educational needs. The discussion is based on the appropriateness of the assessments as a means of monitoring achievement and in setting targets. It is argued that National...

This report, commissioned by the Royal Academy of Engineering, offers fresh insights into the ways engineers think. It goes on to suggest ways in which the education system might be redesigned to develop engineers more effectively. The report also makes suggestions as to how the wider public might become engaged...

This report, commissioned by the Nuffield Foundation, addresses two questions: • What is the range and type of research evidence from countries with high performance in mathematics that gives insights into the reasons for their relatively high position? • What constitutes high performance in mathematics learning...