SCIENCE NETWORKS

I support a range of networking opportunities within science.

 

I run a number of primary science coordinator networks across the North East of England. These are large and active regionally-based groups of schools that are instrumental in pushing science forward in your area. Currently, there are four networks:

 

• North Tyne Science Network – Northumberland, Newcastle and North Tyneside

• South West Tyne Science Network – West Gateshead and North Durham

• South East Tyne Science Network – East Gateshead, Sunderland and South Tyneside

• Tees Science Network – South Durham, Hartlepool, Stockton and Middlesbrough

 

These networks run as three termly meeting but a lot of the work is done back in school or working collaboratively to develop or trial strategies generated at the meetings. Please click here to download a network flier which gives a flavour of the work happing in these networks.

 

If you are in a school outside of these areas then it is easy to set one up. Bring together at least 10 interested schools in your area and contact me through phil.watkins35@outlook.com. I’ll then help you through the process. You can then link into the wider ‘family’ of schools to access unbelievable expertise, enthusiasm and on-going support.

 

When your school buys into the network your school will receive a range of resources free:

 

• A scheme of work from years 1-6 utilising dual objective planning

• A network standards file for Explaining Science providing assessed pupil work measured against year group expectation.

• A network standards file for Working Scientifically providing assessed pupil work measured against year group expectation.

• A recommended science equipment list

• A frame for a science policy

 

The charge for the network is only £100 for the yearly subscription. It is expected you attend meetings and support us to create future resources and strategies.

 

I work as a Triple Science Advisor for the North East of England. There are a range of activities, including termly networks advertised locally from the National STEM Learning Centre for secondary schools in the area. These are free events so please look out for them and get involved. The Triple Science Programme also supports direct science improvement through funded support by Triple Science Advisors. Please contact me directly to find out more.

 

The University of Hertfordshire runs the Primary Science Quality Mark (PSQM) which is a national award for science in primary schools. It supports whole school science developments and leads to exceptional subject leader expertise. It raises the profile of science and ensures sustainable improvements on three levels – bronze, silver and gold award. I am both a hub leader and assessor for PSQM and hubs are run as supportive networks across the year to help you through the process. If you are interested then either contact me directly or contact PSQM through their website.