Science in the Primary Classroom Collaboration

These sessions, which run for a term, offer the opportunity for local primary schools to review their science schemes of work with a specialist science teacher from St Albans School. Our science teacher offers whole class or small group practical Science sessions, linked to the school’s curriculum. This is a collaborative venture, working with primary school non-specialist teachers to develop confidence in science teaching using impactful and accessible practical lessons which help to reinforce learning.   

Aims

To develop a mutually beneficial partnership between the two schools with a particular focus on developing Science programmes and supporting non-specialist teachers in Primary education.  

Background

This is a new project; we had more demand for our on-site Science Partnership programme than we could supply, and not all schools had the ability to come to our school. We had a science teacher keen to get involved and it was decided to offer our experienced and specialist science teacher to go out to schools that could not come to us to support their science learning alongside the class teacher.  

Resources

The Head of Partnership coordinates the programme that is run by a specialist science teacher who is timetabled for this Partnership activity every Monday afternoon. Our school can provide resources and share equipment where appropriate. 

Impact

Primary School children gain scientific skills by using equipment which may not be available for them to use in their own primary schools and have the experience of working with a specialist Science teacher. The primary class teachers have the support of a specialist teacher to help plan lessons and appropriate We will ask for feedback from the Primary Schools who are involved in the program. 

Pupil Involvement

The lessons usually involve a class of up to 30 Key Stage 2 primary school pupils.  

Frequency

Ongoing project, weekly during term time.  Each school is allocated one term of collaboration with the possibility of follow up sessions.