ASE 2025 Annual Conference: Full Schedule

The ASE is delighted to be hosting its Annual Conference, generously sponsored by AQA, at the University of Nottingham from 9th to 11th January 2025. International sessions are incorporated throughout the event for this year and we will have a great exhibition with lots of exclusive Conference offers. Post-16 focus-day and for those involved in leading and delivering professional development, the Teacher Developers’ Group programme is Thursday. Friday is the dedicated Technicians day and Early Career Teacher day. Sessions for both Primary and 11-19 are threaded throughout all 3 days with a focus on Research on Saturday.
Book your tickets now at https://ase2025AnnConf.eventbrite.co.uk - and remember, if you are an ASE member you will benefit from hugely discounted prices! Check out our membership here - it’s free for Early Career Teachers and only £25 for Technicians!

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08:45 GMT

CLEAPSS: Sustainability in science education

Friday January 10, 2025 08:45 - 09:35 GMT

Physics B23

We pay lip-service to green chemistry in the UK by including just one of the 12 published reasons from the American Chemical Society, for adopting a green chemistry approach. There are at least 5 more that are applicable to school practical chemistry. In this talk for teachers, technicians, publishers, exam bodies and consultants, we will show, with live demonstrations and videos, some of the results of adopting “green” principles. The talk will also cover the latest developments in Hydrogen based fuels in schools.

Speakers

Matt Endean

Deputy Director, CLEAPSS

Bob Worley

CLEAPSS

Friday January 10, 2025 08:45 - 09:35 GMT
Physics B23

11-19

Theme Sustainability climate change & environmental issues
Key Stage / Audience Type ECTs, Global, Industry, Teacher Developers, 11-14, 14-16, Post-16
Twitter feed @CLEAPSS

08:45 GMT

Good Practical Science: using formative assessment techniques to help students prepare for exams

Friday January 10, 2025 08:45 - 09:35 GMT

Pope LT C17

Imagine telling your students that their upcoming science mock exam is the most important exam of their life. Imagine the pressure this puts them under. Imagine the enormous quantity of information that they feel they need to ‘know’ for their exam. Imagine thinking that some revision lessons on ‘difficult topics’, and some general advice on revision will help.

Imagine doing this with the majority of students every year. Without question.

Imagine if you did question whether there was a ‘different way’. For many years, like most other science teachers, I had assumed that there was no ‘other’ way. Then I asked the question, and started on a journey, during which I used all my knowledge of formative assessment, built up since my early involvement with the King’s College team and the ‘Inside The Black Box’ project, to develop new formative methods for preparing my students for their science examinations. This journey resulted in the total breakdown of the differentiation between preparation for summative assessments, such as mock exams, and the formative assessment techniques that my students were used to using in their lessons.

Imagine the end result of the journey being a totally different, more formative, approach to both preparation for exams, and of the revision done, by students.

Imagine discovering that this benefitted every students’, confidence with their science exams, regardless of their abilities and past attainment. Imagine that this also resulted in far better examination results across the board.

Imagine that nothing on my journey involved any more work for the students, nor for the teacher.

Imagine if you could get the benefits of the first part of my journey in a single session at this year’s ASE conference.

Imagine a totally new approach to linking formative and summative assessment to help students prepare for their science exams.

Speakers

Ed Walsh

Science Education Consultant, Ed Walsh Consulting

An author and CPD presenter, I was a teacher for 20 years, 12 of them as team leader. I then worked as a consultant, supporting teachers and science teams, training teachers and developing curriculum materials. I am now a Series Editor for Collins, CPD Trainer for AQA and Development... Read More →

Marianne Cutler

Director, Policy and Curriculum Innovation, ASE

Marianne has overall responsibility for curriculum support and projects at the ASE. She works closely with ASE committees and manages professional development projects.

Friday January 10, 2025 08:45 - 09:35 GMT
Pope LT C17

11-19

Theme Assessment
Key Stage / Audience Type 14-16, 11-14, Teacher Developers, ECTs

08:45 GMT

Leveraging AI Technologies for Responsive Teaching

Friday January 10, 2025 08:45 - 09:35 GMT

Physics C29

The session delves into the transformative potential of AI in creating a more dynamic and responsive educational environment. The session focuses on practical applications and tangible outcomes for educators, including sharing ideas & strategies from practising teachers and providing valuable insights and practical takeaways for the delegates.

In traditional classrooms, responsiveness to student needs is paramount. Traditional teaching methods, while effective in many respects, often struggle to address the diverse and evolving requirements of individual students. AI technologies offer innovative solutions to bridge this gap, enabling educators to tailor their approaches to better meet the needs of each learner.

Delegates in this exploration of AI technologies for responsive teaching will gain:
1. Understanding of AI Applications: A comprehensive understanding of how AI technologies can be applied to create more responsive and effective teaching environments.
2. Practical Implementation Strategies: Strategies for integrating AI tools into their teaching practices to personalise learning and enhance student engagement.
3. Insight into Data Utilisation: Knowledge of how to leverage data-driven insights to inform instructional decisions and improve student outcomes.

The proposed structure of the talk is detailed below:

>Overview of the Topic - Explain the importance of responsive teaching and the role of AI in education

>Understanding AI Technologies in Education
*What is AI?
Define AI and provide examples relevant to education.
*Key AI Technologies Used in Education:
Machine Learning
Natural Language Processing
Intelligent Tutoring Systems
Data Analytics
Provide real-world examples and case studies

>Benefits of AI for Responsive Teaching
*Personalised Learning Experiences - Discuss how AI can tailor educational content to individual students.
*Real-Time Feedback and Assessment- Explain the benefits of immediate feedback and adaptive assessments.
*Enhanced Student Engagement - Explore AI tools that make learning more engaging.
*Efficient Classroom Management- Describe how AI can automate administrative tasks and support classroom management.

>Practical Implementation Strategies
*Integrating AI into Teaching Practices- Step-by-step guide on incorporating AI tools in the classroom.
*Case Studies and Success Stories - Share specific examples of schools & teachers successfully using AI for responsive teaching.

>Challenges and Considerations
*Technical and Ethical Challenges - Discuss potential challenges such as data privacy, bias in AI, and technical barriers.
*Future Trends and Developments -Highlight emerging trends and the future of AI in education.

>Q&A and Interactive Discussion

>Conclusion- Summary of Key Points /Recap the main takeaways from the talk.
*Call to Action
*Encourage delegates to explore and experiment with AI tools in their teaching practices.

Speakers

Kavitha Ravindran

Co-founder & Director of sAInaptic, sAInaptic Limited

sAInaptic is an AI-driven web app for GCSE science that automatically evaluates free-text answers to open-ended questions, providing instant feedback. The feedback includes a predictive score and qualitative, teacher-like information on correct and missed concepts. sAInaptic’s auto-marking... Read More →

Sponsors

sAInaptic

Friday January 10, 2025 08:45 - 09:35 GMT
Physics C29

11-19

Theme Using AI to deliver the science curriculum
Key Stage / Audience Type ECTs, Global, Teacher Developers, 11-14, ITEs, Trainees

08:45 GMT

Misconceptions in exams - key lessons from the 2024 summer series

Friday January 10, 2025 08:45 - 09:35 GMT

Pope A1

In this interactive session, the OCR Science team will summarise the key lessons from the 2024 summer exam series. We will highlight some of the misconceptions to be overcome at GCSE and A Level. With the aid of candidate exemplars, we will discuss strategies and resources to deal with misconceptions.

Speakers

Amy Brewer

Science Subject Advisor, OCR

Mike Jackson

Subject Advisor for Science, OCR

Sponsors

OCR

We are a leading not-for-profit UK Exam Board. As part of Cambridge University Press & Assessment, a department of the University of Cambridge, we have access to unrivalled expertise and research capacity across assessment and examinations.We provide qualifications which engage people... Read More →

Friday January 10, 2025 08:45 - 09:35 GMT
Pope A1

11-19

Theme Assessment
Key Stage / Audience Type ECTs, Teacher Developers, 11-14, 14-16, Post-16
Twitter feed @OCR_science

08:45 GMT

Teacher Retention- International Case Studies

Friday January 10, 2025 08:45 - 09:35 GMT

Coates C22

Is teacher attrition an inevitable fact of life? Annual attrition rates for Early Career Science Teachers in England are running at an eye watering 15% per annum despite major government initiatives. But this does not have to be case. Taking case studies from across the world delegates will be invited to see if there are lessons to be learned from further afield.

Speakers

Chris Shepherd

Strategic Lead (Recruitment & Retraining), Institute of Physics

My role is to improve the recruitment of physics teachers across the UK and Ireland. I lead a team that markets teaching as a career to wide audience from undergraduates through to career changers and returners, . We run the IOP Teacher Training Scholarship scheme on behalf of the... Read More →

Friday January 10, 2025 08:45 - 09:35 GMT
Coates C22

11-19

Theme Professional Journeys
Key Stage / Audience Type Global, Selected by Teacher Developers' Group, Teacher Developers, 11-14, 14-16, Post-16, ITEs, Trainees, Advisors/Consultants
Twitter feed @_chrisshepherd_

08:45 GMT

Spaced Learning in Physics Education

Friday January 10, 2025 08:45 - 09:35 GMT

Coates C27

Can the whole of the Atomic Structure GCSE unit be taught and learnt in one hour? This workshop will explore the impact of Spaced Learning within lessons in physics education. This statistically significant study shows how recent advances in our understanding of neuroscience can be applied to the classroom to maximise learning rates.

Delegates will explore evidence-based approaches to implement Spaced Learning in their teaching, as well as gaining insight in this exciting area of cognitive science. Although the research study and associated peer-reviewed article presented is focused on physics teaching and learning, the strategies discussed are highly transferrable to other areas of the curriculum.

Speakers

Rachel Hartley

Pedagogy and Professional Practice Strategic Lead, Institute of Physics

Alessio Bernadelli

Professional Support Coach, Institute of Physics

Friday January 10, 2025 08:45 - 09:35 GMT
Coates C27

All

Theme Curriculum and New Teaching Approaches
Key Stage / Audience Type ECTs, Global, Industry, Teacher Developers, 7 to 11, 11-14, 14-16, Post-16, FE/Skills, ITEs, Trainees, Advisors/Consultants

08:45 GMT

STEM and Metacognition - What Strategies Complement Our Teaching?

Friday January 10, 2025 08:45 - 09:35 GMT

Pope A34

Metacognition is a hugely powerful pedagogy. In fact, it is the highest rated impact that EEF have researched. Beyond this, it is also a key part of ITT and high-quality CPD, as defined by OFSTED. However, it is quite a complex theory, and often ignored by schools and teachers alike.

This session will look to address these difficulties, by presenting a number of high-quality metacognitive strategies which can be introduced quickly and successfully into the STEM classroom.

These strategies build from work undertaken with OUP, around the ideas of planning, monitoring and evaluation. No teacher will leave this session without new or improved strategies that they can instantly introduce into their classroom.

Speakers

Nathan Burns

Mr Metacognition

Friday January 10, 2025 08:45 - 09:35 GMT
Pope A34

All

Theme Curriculum and New Teaching Approaches
Key Stage / Audience Type ECTs, Global, Industry, Selected by Teacher Developers' Group, Teacher Developers, 7 to 11, 11-14, 14-16

08:45 GMT

Why Geophysics matters

Friday January 10, 2025 08:45 - 09:35 GMT

Chemistry LT X2 (with sink)

As we move further into the 21st century, numerically literate Earth scientist will be needed more than ever to help to tackle our planet and society’s most pressing challenges, including the energy transition towards a low-carbon future, ensuring global food and water security, and understanding and mitigate the impacts of natural hazards and climate change. Geophysics provides exactly the needed skill set and is shortlisted by the UK Government as a profession in high demand, yet hardly known amongst science teachers.

This session explains what geophysics is: the application of physics to study planet Earth, addressing volcanism, earthquakes, resources, space weather, climate and environmental challenges; and why Geophysics matters for a sustainable future.

Speakers

Jurgen Neuberg

Professor, Leeds University

Professor J Neuberg is the Leader of the Geophysics program at the University of Leeds. He is chairman of the IAVCEI/IASPEI joint commission on Volcano Seismology and an equivalent group of the European Seismological Commission. Since 1997 he has been involved in the monitoring efforts... Read More →

Friday January 10, 2025 08:45 - 09:35 GMT
Chemistry LT X2 (with sink)

Post-16

Theme Sustainability climate change & environmental issues
Key Stage / Audience Type Post-16, ECTs, Teacher Developers, Global, Industry, ITEs

08:45 GMT

Adapting science learning and scaffolding support for specific SEND needs

Friday January 10, 2025 08:45 - 09:35 GMT

ESLC B05

The talk will consider the barriers impacting learners within science education and strategies to overcome them by exploring the Plymouth Science SEND Toolkit. Consideration has been given to supporting pupils with particular SEND needs and how to scaffold learning to support them effectively.

The session will focus on unlocking learning and removing barriers to ensure all children make progress. During the session the toolkit will be explored to consider removing barriers for those with visual impairment, hearing impairment, physical disability, neurodivergent pupils, dyslexic pupils etc. Examples from lessons will be discussed to exemplify good practice. Evidence-informed practice will be explored.

Speakers

Jodie Greaves

ITT Partnership Leader and Director of Plymouth Science, Plymouth Marjon University and Plymouth Science

Carla Bennett

School Improvement Officer and Director of Plymouth Science, First Federation MAT and Plymouth Science

Friday January 10, 2025 08:45 - 09:35 GMT
ESLC B05

Primary

Theme Inclusion and Diversity including SEND
Key Stage / Audience Type ECTs, Teacher Developers, 5 to 7, 7 to 11, ITEs, Trainees

08:45 GMT

All Change in the EYFS!

Friday January 10, 2025 08:45 - 09:35 GMT

Physics A01

Changing seasons, changing states, growing and decaying all provide rich learning opportunities for pupils in the EYFS. This session looks at engaging activities for observing over time enquiries spanning minutes, hours, days and weeks.

Speakers

Kathryn Horan CSciTeach

Pudsey Waterloo Primary School, Primary Science Consultant, Pudsey Waterloo Primary School

I'm a primary teacher, PSQM Hub Leader and independent consultant based in West Yorkshire. I'm also a PSTT College Fellow and Chartered Science Teacher.I have particular interests in effective links between science and literacy, including teaching science with stories and using drama... Read More →

Friday January 10, 2025 08:45 - 09:35 GMT
Physics A01

Primary

Theme Curriculum and New Teaching Approaches
Key Stage / Audience Type 0-4, ECTs, Global, Teacher Developers
Twitter feed @scikathryn

08:45 GMT

ASE Primary Committee welcome first-timers to Conference

Friday January 10, 2025 08:45 - 09:35 GMT

Pope LT C15

The ASE Primary committee is delighted to meet and greet any new primary science educators to Annual Conference. Whether you are a lone delegate attending for the first time, or presenting for the first time, do come along and chat with members of the committee who will welcome you and advise you on the various ways you can enjoy your day, and gain some great professional learning amongst like-minded colleagues.

Speakers

Angharad Pass

Primary Science Specialist Education Consultant

Friday January 10, 2025 08:45 - 09:35 GMT
Pope LT C15

Primary

Theme Professional Journeys
Key Stage / Audience Type 0-4, 5 to 7, 7 to 11, ECTs
Twitter feed @theASE

08:45 GMT

CLEAPSS Primary Practical Workshop

Friday January 10, 2025 08:45 - 09:35 GMT

ESLC B07

This workshop is a circus of practical activities to try and take away, all using easily accessible and easy-to-use materials. All our activities are developed with teachers and trialled in schools with children.

Speakers

Jason Harding

Primary Section Leader, CLEAPSS

Maria Pack

Primary Science Consultant, CLEAPSS

Sally Fulford

Primary Consultant, CLEAPSS

Ex -secondary and primary science teacher now working (and loving my roles) as a consultant for Primary CLEAPSS, the Ogden Trust, PSQM, TAPS and more. Based in Devon.

Friday January 10, 2025 08:45 - 09:35 GMT
ESLC B07

Primary

Theme Practical Work
Key Stage / Audience Type ECTs, Global, Industry, Teacher Developers, 5 to 7, 7 to 11
Twitter feed @CLEAPSS_Primary

08:45 GMT

Retrieval Roulette: What works in Primary Science?

Friday January 10, 2025 08:45 - 09:35 GMT

ESLC B01

This session will delve into the concept of retrieval practice and its transformative impact on primary science teaching and learning. Designed for primary teachers and teacher developers, this session provides actionable strategies, supported by robust research, to improve memory retention and comprehension in young learners, including:

•Cognitive science about retrieval.
•Practical ideas for retrieval examples from key stage one and key stage two
•Results of a teacher survey about retrieval - which strategies are people using and what are the barriers to retrieval ?
•Overcoming obstacles for retrieval.
We will explore the definition and cognitive benefits of retrieval practice, with some background neuroscience, underpinned by educational research, and investigate practical examples for use in the classroom – giving you a toolkit of strategies to embed retrieval practice into your daily teaching to support engagement, address misconceptions, make meaningful and relevant links, and reinforce learning to boost pupil outcomes.

Speakers

Claire Seeley MA CSciTeach

Primary Science Education Consultant

Dr Jo Montgomery

Primary Science Education Consultant, Dr Jo Science Solutions

With both a teaching and science background, Dr. Jo Montgomery has more than 20 years’ experience working with children and schools to support science education from Early Years to university. Passionate about encouraging curiosity and investigation, Jo is a primary science specialist... Read More →

Friday January 10, 2025 08:45 - 09:35 GMT
ESLC B01

Primary

Theme Curriculum and New Teaching Approaches
Key Stage / Audience Type ECTs, Teacher Developers, Global, 5 to 7, 7 to 11, Trainees
Twitter feed @DrJoScience

08:45 GMT

“I want to be a scientist!" - Children Challenging Industry

Friday January 10, 2025 08:45 - 09:35 GMT

ESLC B04

Do you want to make science real and relevant, build links with local industries and increase STEM career aspirations? This session will explore why links to real-world contexts are important, as outlined in the EEF's 'Improving Primary Science Guidance Report', and how the Children Challenging Industry programme improves attitudes towards science through connections to the wider curriculum.

This hands-on practical workshop will showcase a variety of free, curriculum-based resources for primary teachers, supporting you to achieve this through the use of industry storylines.

Speakers

Melanie Boyeson

Primary Science Advisory Teacher (Humber), Centre for Industry Education Collaboration (CIEC)

Clare Draper

Primary Science Advisory Teacher (East of England), Centre for Industry Education Collaboration (CIEC)

Friday January 10, 2025 08:45 - 09:35 GMT
ESLC B04

Primary

Theme Practical Work
Key Stage / Audience Type ECTs, Industry, Global, Teacher Developers, 7 to 11, Trainees
Twitter feed @ciecyork

08:45 GMT

Technicians TechMeet & Welcome

Friday January 10, 2025 08:45 - 09:35 GMT

Chemistry Building Foyer

All technicians are welcome to join the ASE Technicians Committee and other members, for a warm welcome to meet and greet each other, and chat about what their plans are to enjoy on the dedicated Techs day.

Speakers

Fiona Roberts RSciTech

Senior Science Technician / Chair of ASE Technicians Committee, Bolton School

I have been a school science technician for 14 years. Prior to this I was a Biomedical Scientist in Microbiology working for the NHS.I currently work across biology, chemistry & physics in KS3 & KS4.I'm a member of the ASE Technician's committee & collate the Prep Room pages for... Read More →

Friday January 10, 2025 08:45 - 09:35 GMT
Chemistry Building Foyer

Technicians

Theme Professional Journeys
Key Stage / Audience Type Technicians
Twitter feed @theASE

08:45 GMT

Primary Science Teaching Trust warmly welcomes all primary teachers

Friday January 10, 2025 08:45 - 16:45 GMT

Pope A17

A warm welcome to the primary science networking space! Come along and pick up complimentary refreshments, meet other primary colleagues and find out more about how the Primary Science Teaching Trust (PSTT) can support you. We have expert advice on hand and a wealth of FREE resources to give away, including prize draws for many of our paid resources. We are delighted that TTS-group and Explorify are joining us in the networking space - please come along and chat to them about the latest resources and how to access their support.

Speakers

Ali Eley

National Programme Director, Primary Science Teaching Trust

Alison Eley has been a fellow of the Primary Science Teaching Trust since 2012. Ali’s teaching career has included being a science subject leader in primary schools in Somerset and South West London, working in Initial Teacher Education as a senior lecturer in primary science at... Read More →

Barbara French

Communications and Content Manager, Primary Science Teaching Trust

Be sure to visit the PSTT's networking space on Level 2 of the Learning Hub outside rooms 227 to 231 on 5th and 6th January for refreshments and to discuss primary science.Here, you'll learn about support opportunities for your school as well as science resources to use with your... Read More →

Friday January 10, 2025 08:45 - 16:45 GMT
Pope A17

Primary

Theme Professional Journeys
Key Stage / Audience Type 0-4, 5 to 7, 7 to 11

09:45 GMT

100 years on from the Scopes Monkey Trial - evolution education then and now

Friday January 10, 2025 09:45 - 10:35 GMT

Chemistry LT X2 (with sink)

In 1925, a high school teacher, John Scopes, was found guilty of violating the state of Tennessee’ Butler Act which made it illegal to teach human evolution in state-funded schools. We introduce interdisciplinary (science and RE) classroom resources which revisit the 1925 Trial through a role play and help students learn how our understanding of fossils and evolution have developed since.

Speakers

Marianne Cutler

Director, Policy and Curriculum Innovation, ASE

Marianne has overall responsibility for curriculum support and projects at the ASE. She works closely with ASE committees and manages professional development projects.

Michael J. Reiss

Professor of Science Education, UCL IOE

Denise Cush

Professor of Religious Education, Bath Spa University

David Francis

Big Ideas for Religious Education

Friday January 10, 2025 09:45 - 10:35 GMT
Chemistry LT X2 (with sink)

11-19

Theme Curriculum and New Teaching Approaches
Key Stage / Audience Type 11-14
Twitter feed @theASE

09:45 GMT

A practical guide to developing a culture of research and innovation in you

Friday January 10, 2025 09:45 - 10:35 GMT

Pope A34

IRIS has supported over 7,700 students across 10% of UK secondary schools to carry out real research, contributing to knowledge today and solving the problems of tomorrow. We’ve seen how teachers and schools can developing a culture of Research & Innovation and how it transforms students’ experience of and relationship with STEM.

Do you want to inspire your students to pursue STEM careers and make a positive impact on the world? Do you want to learn how to foster a culture of research and innovation in your school that engages learners of all abilities and backgrounds? If so, join us for this session where we will share what we’ve learnt from our work and research. You will also get practical tips and resources on how to start your own research and innovation journey.

Speakers

Marcus Bernard

Deputy Director, Institute of Research in Schools (IRIS)

Georgina Lott

STEM School Innovation Lead, Institute of Research in Schools (IRIS)

Alison Rouncefield-Swales

Head of Research & Evaluation, IRIS (Institute for Research in Schools)

Friday January 10, 2025 09:45 - 10:35 GMT
Pope A34

11-19

Theme Research
Key Stage / Audience Type Selected by Research Group, Teacher Developers, ECTs, Global, Industry, 11-14, 14-16, ITEs, Selected by Teacher Developers' Group

09:45 GMT

ECT's Keynote: Should practical work be like recipes?

Friday January 10, 2025 09:45 - 10:35 GMT

Pope LT C17

Engaging students in the practice of science is fundamental for learning. Debate persists over how this can be achieved in the classroom and the research reveals the potential and caution required if teachers are to utilise practical science activities effectively, as ‘hands-on’ and ‘minds-on’ learning opportunities.

In this keynote, we will review and discuss the importance of facilitating practical work that supports students’ deep intellectual engagement with the practice of science during inquiry-based activities and how this translates into improved learning.

We will reconsider research around inquiry-based learning, cognitive acceleration in science education, and classroom dialogue through a practical science lens. This body of research provides valuable insights into how this can be achieved in your classroom. Drawing from the real-classroom experiences of KS2-KS4 teachers (like you) who have adapted their pedagogical and assessment practices, we will illustrate how practical science activity can engage students in minds-on learning.

Speakers

Natasha Serret

Senior Lecturer in Education, Nottingham Trent University

Dr. Natasha Serret BA (Hons) MA PGCE SFHEAPrimary BA Joint Course LeaderSenior Lecturer in EducationNottingham Trent UniversityNottingham Institute of Education

Catarina Corriea

Lecturer in Education, University College London

Bio:I started my academic career as a PhD student in Thermochemistry in 2002, at the University of Lisbon, Portugal. For the next decade, I conducted research in photoacoustic calorimetry, structural characterisation of biomolecules through IRMPD, FT-ICR MS and computational chemistry... Read More →

Friday January 10, 2025 09:45 - 10:35 GMT
Pope LT C17

11-19

Theme Curriculum and New Teaching Approaches
Key Stage / Audience Type 11-14, 14-16, Post-16

09:45 GMT

Required Practicals for Physics - GCSE and A-Level

Friday January 10, 2025 09:45 - 10:35 GMT

Physics C30

Join us to have a totally hands-on experience of the following Required Practicals. GCSE - Specific Heat Capacity; Acceleration - Newton’s 2nd; Radiation - Leslie’s cube; GCSE & A-Level How does the Resistance of a Wire depend on its length? A-Level - Simple harmonic motion in a spring mass system; Relationship between period and length of the pendulum; Time constant for a capacitor-resistor circuit; Free teaching resources available. Download our App EasySense2 onto your phone, it’s free as well (Android users allow all permissions when downloading).

Speakers

Iain Davison

UK Sales Manager, Data Harvest

I used to teach Secondary Science and did quite a lot of Primary Liaison. I was introduced to data-loggers in my first year of teaching in 1990 and used them ever since and always bought from Data Harvest. In 2000 I received the Institute of Electrical Engineers Teacher of The Year... Read More →

Andy Billington

Technical Support Officer, Data Harvest

Friday January 10, 2025 09:45 - 10:35 GMT
Physics C30

11-19

Theme Practical Work
Key Stage / Audience Type 14-16, Post-16, Global
Twitter feed @dataharvestnews

09:45 GMT

Science education in an age of Misinformation

Friday January 10, 2025 09:45 - 10:35 GMT

ESLC B01

We are living in an Age of Misinformation – much of it scientific. The problem is compounded by: a) the hubris that comes from the belief that Google can provide all the answers; b) the fallacious belief that we have no need of experts; and c) a science education which deludes itself that it can educate students to be scientifically literate. Yet nothing could be further from the truth as we are all dependent on the expertise of scientists as we are on the expertise of a plumber, lawyer or doctor. Most of the science that we encounter from how to mitigate climate change to the risks of vaccination are too complex and way beyond the boundaries of school science. The issue, it will be shown, is not one of evaluating the science but rather make judgements of credibility of scientific experts and the claims they put forward. What can and must school science do to help?

This workshop will present the findings of an international, interdisciplinary team which explored this issue and the recommendations that emerged from their work in the report – Science Education in an Age of Misinformation (available from https://sciedandmisinfo.stanford.edu/) . The workshop will be interactive drawing on classroom examples for participants to discuss and explore requiring the use of foundational media literacy strategies and the use of three key questions that must be asked of any scientific claim. These are: Is there a conflict of interest? Does this person/organization have the appropriate scientific expertise? And is there a scientific consensus on this topic?

Participants will have an opportunity to consider what they can do in their classrooms and discuss the arguments for why current curricula are woefully inadequate in addressing scientific misinformation which is undermining belief in science, and more broadly, belief in democracy.

Speakers

Jonathan Osborne

Professor, Stanford University

My career started by teaching science in London comprehensives in 1972 for 9 years. Curently I am the Kamalachari Professor in Science Education, Emeritus, in the Graduate School of Education, Stanford University in California but now back in the UK. I was President of the US National... Read More →

Friday January 10, 2025 09:45 - 10:35 GMT
ESLC B01

11-19

Theme Curriculum and New Teaching Approaches
Key Stage / Audience Type 11-14, 14-16, Post-16, ECTs, Global, Industry, Teacher Developers

09:45 GMT

Smart Physics: Unleashing Smartphone Power

Friday January 10, 2025 09:45 - 10:35 GMT

Physics lab

Join a hands-on workshop filled with quick and engaging physics experiments that use the power of smartphone technology. This innovative approach empowers physics teachers and technicians to create dynamic, interactive learning experiences. By combining theory with practical application, it makes science both accessible and exciting.

Participants will explore a range of experiments, from motion analysis to temperature measurements. The workshop demonstrates how smartphone technology, alongside wireless datalogging sensors and the PASCO Smart Carts, can enhance experimentation.

By integrating these tools, teachers and technicians will learn how to captivate students' interest and foster an environment that encourages active participation and a deeper understanding of physics concepts. This workshop promises to be an enriching experience that bridges the gap between theory and practice, making science come alive in real-world contexts.

Please download the FREE SPARKvue app on your Android, and iOS Device in preparation for this workshop.

Speakers

Silas Norman

Product Manager, VITTA Group

Wendy Ford

VITTA Group Brand Manager, VITTA Education

As Brand Manager for the VITTA Group, Wendy is closely involved with the group's dynamic portfolio, which is dedicated to empowering science educators, bringing science to life, and consequently, providing support for the scientists of tomorrow.As an established marketeer, Wendy's... Read More →

Sponsors

VITTA Education

VITTA Education is a leading supplier of scientific equipment to educational institutions like schools, colleges, and universities. While the name might still be new, the dedicated team, exceptional products, and unwavering commitment to supporting educators, lab technicians, students... Read More →

Friday January 10, 2025 09:45 - 10:35 GMT
Physics lab

11-19

Theme Practical Work
Key Stage / Audience Type 11-14, 14-16, ECTs, Technicians
Twitter feed @VITTAEducation

09:45 GMT

Professional registration - what it is and what's involved

Friday January 10, 2025 09:45 - 10:35 GMT

Pope A1

An introduction to professional registration with the Science Council. This workshop will explain what's involved, how you can apply and how to write a cracking application. The workshop will cover all registers - Chartered Science Teacher, Registered Scientist and Registered Science Technician

Speakers

Rob Butler

Registrar - Association for Science Education, ASE

I'm a Chartered Science teacher, the registrar and Project Officer for the ASE (running the Keeping Science Practical project).I'm a senior professional development leader for the Science Learning Partnership network and I help the Science Council promote their professional registers... Read More →

Corinne Stevenson

Chair of Registration Board, ASE

I am a School Improvement adviser and work with schools in all phases, primary ,secondary and special-in all areas of science I also work with heads and governors on school improvement. I have supported many colleagues through the registration process in order that the achieve... Read More →

Friday January 10, 2025 09:45 - 10:35 GMT
Pope A1

All

Theme Professional Journeys
Key Stage / Audience Type Global, Industry, Teacher Developers, Technicians, ITEs, Advisors/Consultants, 5 to 7, 7 to 11, 11-14, 14-16, Post-16
Twitter feed @theASE

09:45 GMT

Primary keynote: Science influencers: a model for professional identity, esteem and value

Friday January 10, 2025 09:45 - 10:35 GMT

Pope LT C15

Wellbeing is such a key topic currently for education. For three years (2019-2022) Primary science in Stoke-on-Trent received significant DfE funding (Opportunities Area local plans) to upskill the local school workforce. It is now 2025 and there is much to continue to celebrate. What happens to staff wellbeing when the investment stops?

Tina Whittaker and Karen Peters (co-leads of ‘Science Across the City’) will facilitate reflections from those involved in the funded professional development programme, and in particular focus upon the difference that the model developed, implemented and known as ‘The SATC Science Influencers” made both then and now. This session will invite attendees to explore the successful legacy beyond the funding, and reflect upon the key messages that are transferable and relevant to current policy design and the set-up of local systems leadership. Check and question assumptions of what matters to great teachers by hearing from great teachers.

www.scienceacrossthecity.co.uk

Speakers

Christina Whittaker

Co-lead Science Across The City Project, Science Across the City

Building Capacity in the primary science landscape, Working collaboratively, Systems leadership, School improvement, School self review ( & Deep Dives), nurturing leaders & outreach

Karen Peters

Strategic co-lead Science across the city, Science Across the City

Becki Price

Science Subject Leader, The Willows Primary School

Dawn McCann

Science subject leader, Hillside Primary School

Friday January 10, 2025 09:45 - 10:35 GMT
Pope LT C15

Primary

Theme Wellbeing and Effective Working Practices
Key Stage / Audience Type 5 to 7, 7 to 11, Teacher Developers, ITEs, Selected by Teacher Developers' Group

09:45 GMT

Practical work with plants for new technicians: Get the pondweed bubbling!

Friday January 10, 2025 09:45 - 10:35 GMT

Chemistry Lab C10 A

Get hands-on experience with common plant-based practicals for secondary and post-16 science. Designed for those new to providing biology technical support, you will:

•explore the preparation and set-up for plant practicals including bubbling pondweed, photosynthesis with algal balls and root tip mitosis
•be introduced to core GCSE and A-level practical SAPS resources
•grow your confidence sourcing, caring for and preparing live plant material
•be introduced to further SAPS resources

Visit us at www.saps.org.uk
Tweet @SAPS_News
View our demos at youtube.com/ScienceAndPlants

Speakers

Alex Jenkin

Project Manager, Science and Plants for Schools (SAPS)

Alex project manages the Science and Plants for Schools project, overseeing SAPS’ attendance at the ASE Annual Conference and managing the development of our free teaching resources. Alex is keen to explore how plants can be used as examples across biology, not just in traditional... Read More →

Dan Jenkins

Head of Gatsby Plant Education Programme, Science and Plants for Schools (SAPS)

Dan is Head of the Gatsby Plant Science Education Programme and directs the Science and Plants for Schools project. For over 10 years Dan has developed practicals and resources for SAPS and is a dab hand at getting any plant to behave in the school lab. Dan’s background in plant... Read More →

Friday January 10, 2025 09:45 - 10:35 GMT
Chemistry Lab C10 A

Technicians

Theme Practical Work
Key Stage / Audience Type Technicians
Twitter feed @SAPS_News

09:45 GMT

Technicians: Reduce, re-use, recycle: a guide to managing waste

Friday January 10, 2025 09:45 - 10:35 GMT

Chemistry lab B5

Unsure what to do with your waste after practical lessons? Come and discover strategies for waste management including dealing with hazardous waste, repurposing everyday rubbish, recycling chemicals from lessons and generally reducing waste in the department.

Speakers

Tracy Sherwood-Farnfield RSciTech

Lead Science Technician, The School of Science and Technology (prep room)

Friday January 10, 2025 09:45 - 10:35 GMT
Chemistry lab B5

Technicians

Theme Practical Work
Key Stage / Audience Type Technicians

09:45 GMT

IOP's Physics and Tea

Friday January 10, 2025 09:45 - 11:15 GMT

Physics Building foyer

The IOP is delighted to be hosting these informal tea and cake sessions for anyone interested in delivering physics education! Pop along, eat, drink and chat - we look forward to welcoming you.

Speakers

Ian Horsewell

Professional Community and Retention Strategic Lead, Institute of Physics

Sponsors

Institute of Physics

The Institute of Physics (IOP) is the professional body and learned society for physics in the UK and Ireland, with an active role in promoting co-operation in physics around the world. We strive to make physics accessible to people from all backgrounds. Come along and visit an... Read More →

Friday January 10, 2025 09:45 - 11:15 GMT
Physics Building foyer

All

Theme Professional Journeys
Key Stage / Audience Type 5 to 7, 7 to 11, 11-14, 14-16, Post-16, ITEs, ECTs, FE/Skills, Advisors/Consultants, Technicians, Trainees

11:15 GMT

Chair Chat

Friday January 10, 2025 11:15 - 11:45 GMT

Engineering & Science Learning Soft Chair area adjacent to ground floor atrium

Our dedicated Chair Trio invite you to drop-in to the “Chair-Chat” sessions on one of the days of Annual Conference 2025.

Got a question? Ever wondered about what goes on behind the scenes? Ever thought about getting involved in Committee activities? Are you wanting to know more about Professional Registration or writing an article in one of the ASE journals? First time attending our flagship Conference?

We look forward to hearing your questions and will endeavour to answer them or point you in a selection of possible right directions!

Speakers

Jane Oldham

Lead Science Technician and Chair of ASE, De Ferrers Academy and Association for Science Education

Currently Chair of the ASE and the Lead Science Technician at the de Ferrers Academy, a large multi-site academy in the Midlands. Jane has been a Science Technician for 18 years, currently leading a team of 6 technicians, where she specialises in supporting KS4 and KS5 chemistry... Read More →

David Allen

Associate Professor Learning and Teaching / Chair Elect for the ASE 24-25, University of Hertfordshire & Creative Primary Science Education Consultancy

I worked in primary schools for over twenty years as a classteacher, senior leader and Deputy Headteacher. I taught across Key stages 1, 2 and 3 in UK and in Spain. During this time I developed a passion for science, art and design, improvised drama, assessment for learning, creativity... Read More →

Alex Sinclair

Senior Lecturer / Outgoing Co-Chair of ASE 23-24, St Mary's University and Association for Science Education

Professor Leigh Hoath

ITE Lecturer and ASE Co Chair, Leeds Trinity University, United Kingdom

Professor Leigh Hoath leads science education at Leeds Trinity University in the UK as Deputy Dean of Faculty, and is the co-founder of an organisation leading curriculum development concerning climate change education (Climate Adapted Pathways for Education - CAPE). She is the outgoing... Read More →

Friday January 10, 2025 11:15 - 11:45 GMT
Engineering & Science Learning Soft Chair area adjacent to ground floor atrium

All

Theme Professional Journeys
Key Stage / Audience Type 0-4, 5 to 7, 7 to 11, 11-14, 14-16, Post-16, Advisors/Consultants, ECTs, FE/Skills, Global, Industry, ITEs, Technicians, Trainees
Twitter feed @theASE

11:15 GMT

CLEAPSS Hands-on Workshop drop-in

Friday January 10, 2025 11:15 - 12:05 GMT

ESLC A09 A

A chance to gets hands-on making equipment and carrying out the latest CLEAPSS practicals

Speakers

Matt Endean

Deputy Director, CLEAPSS

Friday January 10, 2025 11:15 - 12:05 GMT
ESLC A09 A

11-19

Theme Practical Work
Key Stage / Audience Type 11-14, 14-16, Post-16, Technicians
Twitter feed @CLEAPSS

11:15 GMT

CLEAPSS: Physics practicals that work

Friday January 10, 2025 11:15 - 12:05 GMT

Physics C29

A talk showcasing a series of new and old Physics practicals, and discussion about how to ensure they work and how to get the best out of them in lessons

Speakers

Samir Moezzi

Physics Advisor, CLEAPSS

Worked as a Physics teacher/HoP before joining CLEAPSS in 2013 as a Physics adviser. My main interests lie in nuclear physics and astrophysics. Come to my talk to see some novel ways of carrying out various practical work. Uses Arduino / Technology a lot.

Friday January 10, 2025 11:15 - 12:05 GMT
Physics C29

11-19

Theme Practical Work
Key Stage / Audience Type ECTs, Global, Industry, Teacher Developers, 11-14, 14-16, Post-16
Twitter feed @CLEAPSS

11:15 GMT

Improving engagement and attainment in Science in Alternative Provision

Friday January 10, 2025 11:15 - 12:05 GMT

Coates C22

Since moving from mainstream secondary education to work in Alternative Provision (AP*) in September 2022, Gemma has been tackling the question of what a meaningful, fit-for-purpose, and successful science curriculum, looks like in this setting. Very little is written about the curriculum in AP in general, and there is even less writing or data on Science in AP. Science provision in AP is patchy across the country, with some provisions unable to find a science teacher and dropping the subject from the curriculum. Many science teachers working in AP are the sole teacher, or work in a team of two people, and the vast majority work without a technician. Finding herself in a similar situation, Gemma reached out to others and formed the Science in AP network.

Many young people excluded from school, at risk of exclusion, or unable to access mainstream education due to SEMH needs, have poor prior experiences of science education. Reflecting the national trend, seen in research such as the Science Education Tracker, many of these young people have the least access to practical science work and enrichment opportunities - both when they have been in mainstream schools and during their time in AP.

In this session Gemma will talk about her journey so far in developing a science curriculum in AP. We will look at ways to adapt a curriculum to a setting where students come and go, and may join with many gaps in their education. We will also look at ways to enable students in AP to access practical science and science enrichment opportunities - even when budgets are tight!

The session will also discuss how the lessons from AP can be applied to mainstream secondary education - ensuring students at risk of exclusion are not excluded from the science classroom before they are even excluded from school.

Speakers

Gemma Short

Head of Science, Haringey Learning Partnership

Gemma has been Science Lead Teacher at Haringey Learning Partnership (AP) since September 2022. Previous to this she has 9 years experience working in mainstream school science departments in Sheffield, Rotherham and London as a classroom teacher, and Head of Chemistry, as well as... Read More →

Friday January 10, 2025 11:15 - 12:05 GMT
Coates C22

11-19

Theme Inclusion and Diversity including SEND
Key Stage / Audience Type ECTs, Global, Industry, 11-14, 14-16, ITEs, Advisors/Consultants
Twitter feed @bolshybunsens

11:15 GMT

Keynote: AI, science education and dialogue

Friday January 10, 2025 11:15 - 12:05 GMT

Pope LT C17

Science Education has always been bound up with technology. Advances in technology mean that we need to re-think not only how we conduct education but also what education is for.

The new generative AI challenges many of the current goals of education. I argue, with examples, that this should return us to valuing the importance of dialogue more. Dialogues supported by AI can help teach students how to think better about science and help induct them into participation in the long-term global dialogue of science.

Speakers

Rupert Wegerif

Professor of Education, Academic Director of the Digital Education Futures Initiative, Faculty of Education and Hughes Hall, University of Cambridge

https://deficambridge.org/https://www.taylorfrancis.com/books/mono/10.4324/9781003198499/theory-educational-technology-rupert-wegerif-louis-major... Read More →

Friday January 10, 2025 11:15 - 12:05 GMT
Pope LT C17

11-19

11:15 GMT

SAPS: Biology practicals that work drop-in session

Friday January 10, 2025 11:15 - 12:05 GMT

ESLC A09 B

Drop-in anytime to try our reliable practicals demonstrating core biological principles. Discover relevant, engaging and affordable practicals covering a range of key curriculum topics. Try something new or troubleshoot an old favourite, join us for ten minutes or two hours. Inspiration guaranteed! (For 11-19 teachers and technicians; ITE and trainees)

This session relates to the ASE Book Teaching Secondary Biology - click here to be directed to the resource in the ASE Bookshop and explore further details

Speakers

Alex Jenkin

Project Manager, Science and Plants for Schools (SAPS)

Dan Jenkins

Head of Gatsby Plant Education Programme, Science and Plants for Schools (SAPS)

Gail Webdell

Science Technician, SAPS

Gail officially joined SAPS in March 2020 but has been a keen enthusiast and support to SAPS for many years. She has worked with the team during our Train the Trainer events and demonstrated with us at the Association for Science Education (ASE) annual conferences on numerous occasions... Read More →

Friday January 10, 2025 11:15 - 12:05 GMT
ESLC A09 B

11-19

Theme Practical Work
Key Stage / Audience Type 11-14, 14-16, Post-16, Advisors/Consultants, Trainees, Technicians

11:15 GMT

Using microscale to develop experiments with purpose

Friday January 10, 2025 11:15 - 12:05 GMT

Chemistry lab B5

Despite recent efforts from Ofqual to raise the profile of experiments in terminal GCSE assessments, recent research reviews from Ofsted suggest that teachers frequently focus on substantive knowledge at the expense of detailed understanding of the experimental skills (the working scientifically skills) required to undertake scientific enquiry. Consequently, research nationally and internationally suggests that teachers adopt recipe-style experiments restricting students' curiosity and scientific understanding.

Microscale experiments offer an affordable and safe pedagogic strategy to support teachers move beyond a recipe-based approach to experimentation and support teachers diagnose and challenge the misconceptions held by students. Moreover, our recent research has shown that offering early career teachers professional development, including microscale experiments within their teaching practice, can be revolutionary. However, teachers are yet to adopt microscale experiments readily, given concerns about compliance with terminal examinations.

Through a suite of hands on minds on microscale experiments, this interactive practical session explores how microscale experiments can support delegates to develop enquiry skills as part of their everyday teaching practice. We offer a range of microscale practicals that align with the required practicals in the GCSE and A-level chemistry curricula in England. In doing so, we provide guidance that supports delegates to center working scientifically skills in their teaching and support their students' understanding of the practical components of the chemistry curriculum in England. By attending this workshop, delegates will uncover the power of microscale experiments. Delegates will examine how microscale practicals are valuable time-saving tools that act as a springboard to develop oracy in their classroom. To support delegates embed microscale practicals in their teaching, each attendee will receive copies of 7 GCSE and 4 A-level microscale experimental methods and accompanying worksheets.

Speakers

Robert Campbell

Course Lead PGCE Secondary Science, St Mary's University Twickenham

I am a lecturer in secondary and primary science, having recently spent 10 years teaching in secondary.As a chemistry teacher I am particularly interested in the understanding of symbolism in science education. I completed my masters in how students justify organic chemistry mechanisms... Read More →

Barbara Pearce

St Mary's University Twickenham

Friday January 10, 2025 11:15 - 12:05 GMT
Chemistry lab B5

11-19

Theme Practical Work
Key Stage / Audience Type ECTs, Global, Teacher Developers, 14-16, Technicians, Trainees, ITEs, Advisors/Consultants
Twitter feed @stmaryssecsci

11:15 GMT

2024 Alexander Award Everyday Science at Sreepur Village Bangladesh

Friday January 10, 2025 11:15 - 12:05 GMT

Physics B23

Sreepur Village in Bangladesh was established in 1989. It keeps mothers with their children. It received the 2024 Alexander Award from the ASE for their project Talking Science, a project set up in 2010 to enable the women recipients at Sreepur to find that they were carrying out science in many of their everyday activities and learning skills relevant to their lives when they return to their village . Information and skills such as how to put out fires, tell the time, filter water and grow vegetables in a sac gardens. A recent initiative is learning bicycle maintenance and repair. This presentation will illustrate some of the everyday activities that occur daily in this purpose-built village in Tengra area of Bangladesh.

Speakers

Dr Lady Sue Dale Tunnicliffe

Patron retired Reader in Science Eduction IOE, CASTME and UCL IOE

Dr Sue Dale Tunnicliffe was Reader in Science Education at UCL IOE, an experienced teacher of all ages, as well as at universities. Sue is a Former OFTSED inspector and Head of Education at the Zoological Society and has published both academic papers and 13 books . Sue is particularly... Read More →

Friday January 10, 2025 11:15 - 12:05 GMT
Physics B23

All

Theme Other
Key Stage / Audience Type ECTs, Global, Industry, Teacher Developers, 5 to 7, 7 to 11, 11-14, 14-16, Post-16, FE/Skills, Trainees

11:15 GMT

Grasping UNESCO Sustainability Competencies through Gaming

Friday January 10, 2025 11:15 - 12:05 GMT

ESLC B01

Einstein once said that “without changing our pattern of thought, we will not be able to solve the problems we created with our current patterns of thought.” These words emphasise the role of climate education and educators in “equipping learners with the skills, attributes and competencies required to safeguard our [highly interconnected] social, environmental and economic wellbeing” as encapsulated in UNESCO’s definition of Education for Sustainable Development (ESD).

Understanding complex global issues requires a new ‘way of thinking’ that consider the many interactions that occur within and across ecological, social and economic systems. Furthermore, people who score higher on ‘systems thinking’ are consistently more likely to be better informed of value issues like climate change as personally important and so take more effective action.
Climate Fresk, is a highly engaging, gamified workshop, based in information taken from the latest IPCC Assessment Report3. This workshop is designed to facilitate conversations among participants and challenge their assumptions in relation to the mechanisms of climate change.

Having featured recently as a very popular article in ASE's own Primary Science journal and used extensively in teacher training, CPD courses and partnership schools at the University of Strathclyde, Scotland’s National ITE establishment, this workshop will be of intense interest to ASE members as it illustrates how to help children and teachers exercise their anticipatory and systems thinking competencies through use of a fun gaming platform as they gain an understanding of emergent earth system behaviour, involving feedback loops and climate tipping points, and the potential impacts of this behaviour on highly interconnected ecological, social and economic systems.

Speakers

Rob Collins

University of Strathclyde

Friday January 10, 2025 11:15 - 12:05 GMT
ESLC B01

All

Theme Sustainability climate change & environmental issues
Key Stage / Audience Type ECTs, Global, Industry, Teacher Developers, 5 to 7, 11-14, 14-16, Post-16, Advisors/Consultants, Trainees, ITEs

11:15 GMT

Frontier Science: TBC

Friday January 10, 2025 11:15 - 12:05 GMT

Coates C27

Friday January 10, 2025 11:15 - 12:05 GMT
Coates C27

Frontier Science

Theme Frontier Science

11:15 GMT

Board games and tipping Points: exploring climate change in the primary cla

Friday January 10, 2025 11:15 - 12:05 GMT

ESLC B05

In this session, the NUSTEM group at Northumbria University will introduce two practical resources for teaching climate change to upper primary pupils. The first resource, "Climate Change: It's in Our Hands," is an engaging board game developed in collaboration with young people from local schools in the Northeast. This game facilitates group work, collaboration, and critical thinking as children explore the complexities of climate change and the practice strategies needed to limit potential temperature rises. In this session, you'll learn how to play the game and access the free download.

The second resource, "Tipping Points", focuses on climatic changes in the Antarctic's sea ice through two planned lessons and accompanying resources. These lessons provide a comprehensive exploration of the scientific and environmental impacts of these changes and the scientists working on them. During this session, you'll learn how to effectively use these resources in your classroom.

Attendees will have the opportunity to practice using these resources, engage in discussions about implementation strategies, and leave with practical tools to enrich their teaching. This session aims to provide teachers with the skills and materials they to enhance their approach to climate change education.

Speakers

Joe Shimwell

Outreach Specialist, NUSTEM

Friday January 10, 2025 11:15 - 12:05 GMT
ESLC B05

Primary

Theme Sustainability climate change & environmental issues
Key Stage / Audience Type ECTs, Global, 7 to 11

11:15 GMT

Bringing DNA into the Primary Classroom with yourgenome.org

Friday January 10, 2025 11:15 - 12:05 GMT

Physics A01

DNA is a fundamental principle in biology and it is never too early to get students talking about it!

Yourgenome.org is a one-stop shop for information about DNA, genes and genomes. Recently updated it offers a great range of teaching resources suitable for primary science.

This session aims to introduce and demonstrate a selection of resources from yourgenome.org that can be easily applied to the teaching of topics around variation, evolution and living things, as well as some great Science Week Activities!

The presenters will walk participants through a selection of resources, highlighting curriculum links and how they can be applied in the classroom. From this session participants will be able to:
- Locate a range of resources on the Yourgenome.org website
- Understand how to integrate teaching resources into teaching plans
- Deliver different DNA-related content in their teaching

Speakers

Francesca Gale

Head of Engagement and Enrichment, Wellcome Connecting Science

Karen Stephens

Science Engagement Manager, Wellcome Connecting Science

Friday January 10, 2025 11:15 - 12:05 GMT
Physics A01

Primary

Theme Curriculum and New Teaching Approaches
Key Stage / Audience Type ECTs, Global, Teacher Developers, 7 to 11
Twitter feed @yourgenome; @engagewcs

11:15 GMT

Forensic Science - a novel approach to teach children about inheritance

Friday January 10, 2025 11:15 - 12:05 GMT

ESLC B07

A crime has been committed. There has been a theft at the ASE conference! In this session the participants will become Forensic Scientists. We will find out how Scene of Crime Officers (SOCOs) collect DNA evidence from the crime scene and how the evidence can be used to solve this case. As part of our analysis we will reveal how the thieves in this case are all part of the same family. We will see how information contained in the DNA has been inherited from the mother and father and how this evidence builds to create a strong case to convict them. This is a fantastic way of directly demonstrating the process of inheritance to children in an engaging and fun way. It will help with their understanding of the topic and to see how inheritance can be used to solve criminal cases in the real world. Come along to see some fantastic novel approaches for helping to teach Year 6 pupils about "Evolution & Inheritance".

Speakers

Mandy Hartley

Science Educator, The Little Story Telling Company

My name is Dr Mandy Hartley. I worked in science for 15 years using DNA to help conserve stocks of fish in the North Sea, diagnose patients with inherited genetic diseases and helping identify and reunite families using DNA. I also set up the forensic laboratories for the Norfolk... Read More →

Friday January 10, 2025 11:15 - 12:05 GMT
ESLC B07

Primary

Theme Curriculum and New Teaching Approaches
Key Stage / Audience Type ECTs, Global, Industry, Teacher Developers, 7 to 11, 11-14, ITEs, Trainees, Advisors/Consultants
Twitter feed @littlestoryco

11:15 GMT

Making learning fun: Accessibility and engagement outside the classroom

Friday January 10, 2025 11:15 - 12:05 GMT

ESLC C01

The value in making learning fun is immeasurable. By encouraging children to adopt different learning styles, you can engage them in activities that they might not have ever tried before.

How can we promote key life skills to young children, while nurturing a passion for learning? Through play, exploration and listening to their needs. Winchester Science Centre (WSC) is owned by the charity Wonderseekers, whose mission is to create a more equitable world where all children can treasure science and are equipped and empowered to improve lives and protect and heal our planet. The charity uses the science centre as a tool to make learning fun, to break down barriers to science for children. The work of Wonderseekers is centred on diversifying reach and growing impact, championing equality, diversity and inclusion in science, working long-term with children who need our support the most, and protecting and healing our planet, as well as inspiring others to do the same.

This session consists of an interactive workshop, whereby attendants will be able to experience a WSC school workshop, while taking time to speak with us about the pedagogy, curriculum and accessibility that has been designed into the activities. There will be an opportunity for Q&A, as well as time to discuss what we have learned from our experiences working with our priority communities, home educated children and SEND groups, amongst other visiting groups.

Speakers

Nikhil Mistry

Head of Curiosity, Winchester Science Centre by Wonderseekers

Jackson Hemming

Curiosity Officer (for Schools), Winchester Science Centre by Wonderseekers

Friday January 10, 2025 11:15 - 12:05 GMT
ESLC C01

Primary

Theme Other
Key Stage / Audience Type ECTs, Teacher Developers, Global, 7 to 11, 5 to 7, Industry

11:15 GMT

Primary Panel: voices from the global perspective

Friday January 10, 2025 11:15 - 12:05 GMT

Pope LT C15

This panel session will be chaired by Angharad Pass, chair of ASE Primary Committee.

We’ll discuss the importance of decolonising science education to create a more inclusive and engaging curriculum for primary students. By incorporating global perspectives and recognizing the contributions of influential non-European scientists like Ibn al-Haytham and Fatima al-Fihri, we can broaden students’ understanding of science and challenge traditional Eurocentric narratives. This approach not only enriches the curriculum but also helps to inspire a more diverse generation of learners, fostering a sense of cultural identity and ensuring that science education is relevant and accessible to all.

Speakers

Angharad Pass

Primary Science Specialist Education Consultant

Romaiza Naseem

Dr Nasima Hassan

Friday January 10, 2025 11:15 - 12:05 GMT
Pope LT C15

Primary

Theme Professional Journeys
Key Stage / Audience Type 5 to 7, 7 to 11, Global

11:15 GMT

CLEAPSS: Chemical Storage and disposal for science technicians

Friday January 10, 2025 11:15 - 12:05 GMT

Physics C30

An overview of how to ensure good chemical storage and how to best manage chemical waste

Speakers

Magda Polec

Chemistry Advisor, CLEAPSS

Friday January 10, 2025 11:15 - 12:05 GMT
Physics C30

Technicians

Theme Practical Work
Key Stage / Audience Type Global, Industry, Technicians
Twitter feed @CLEAPSS

11:15 GMT

Technicians: Foodie Physics

Friday January 10, 2025 11:15 - 12:05 GMT

Physics lab

This session will demonstrate some physics concepts covered at KS3 and KS4 using various food stuffs, giving a more accessible and relatable approach.

Speakers

Jeanette Dyer

Science Technician, Melbourn Village College

Science technician for 12 years (2012- present)Experience at KS3 and KS4 for all sciences and KS5 BiologyAssociate Facilitator for STEM Learning since 2019 (Cambridge and Peterborough SLP) - deliver training courses for TechniciansRan STEM club at school for 2 years - now support... Read More →

Friday January 10, 2025 11:15 - 12:05 GMT
Physics lab

Technicians

Theme Practical Work
Key Stage / Audience Type Technicians

11:15 GMT

Technicians: Make and take - resources and ideas workshop

Friday January 10, 2025 11:15 - 12:05 GMT

Chemistry Lab C10 A

A hands on session with a selection of activites for you to make and take away. The activities are ideal for science clubs, practical lessons and more, and include ideas suitable for KS2, KS3 and KS4.

Speakers

Sarah James

Science Technician, Fairfax Academy

All resources available here - https://www.tes.com/resources/search/?authorId=4513166

Friday January 10, 2025 11:15 - 12:05 GMT
Chemistry Lab C10 A

Technicians

Theme Practical Work
Key Stage / Audience Type Technicians

11:15 GMT

Technicians: Sensational Seaweed

Friday January 10, 2025 11:15 - 12:05 GMT

Chemistry LT X2 (with sink)

Seaweed is known in Scotland as a super food but it has many other uses. In this session we will be using seaweed to demonstrate different photosynthesis rates, and show how you can achieve quantitative results to show the function of photosynthesis. Seaweed also has an important role in fighting climate change with its ability to help reduce animal produced methane. We will also demonstrate how to produce an Egeria Tower. A
n extremely visual representation of photosynthesis at work. Arguably the most important biological process known to man.

Speakers

Margaret Louis

Senior Technician, SSERC

Alan Purves

Education Officer: Technicians, SSERC

Friday January 10, 2025 11:15 - 12:05 GMT
Chemistry LT X2 (with sink)

Technicians

Theme Sustainability climate change & environmental issues
Key Stage / Audience Type ECTs, Global, Industry, Teacher Developers, Technicians, Trainees
Twitter feed @ssercofficial

12:15 GMT

AQA: Supporting ITT – Understanding GCSE science assessment

Friday January 10, 2025 12:15 - 13:05 GMT

Chemistry LT X2 (with sink)

In this introductory session for ITT’s and ECT’s we discuss what a specification is, and how we assess what’s in it, looking at content, Assessment Objectives, the structure of an AQA GCSE science exam paper, how we apply a mark scheme and some implications for teaching and learning of particular aspects of the assessments.

Speakers

Damian Gent

Curriculum Support Manager, Science, AQA

Damian has recently joined the AQA Science Team as Curriculum Support Manager. With over 20 years teaching experience, he has worked across a wide variety of schools delivering support, school improvement and training. Damian also worked as a Science Consultant as part of the Secondary... Read More →

Sponsors

AQA

Since 1903, we’ve been rewarding achievement by designing and delivering fair and inclusive assessment. We do this because we believe that quality assessment is an essential ingredient for a good education. We’re the most chosen exam board in England and we set and mark the papers... Read More →

Friday January 10, 2025 12:15 - 13:05 GMT
Chemistry LT X2 (with sink)

11-19

Theme Assessment
Key Stage / Audience Type ECTs, Teacher Developers, 11-14, 14-16, Advisors/Consultants, ITEs, Trainees
Twitter feed @Science_AQA

12:15 GMT

ASE’s commitment to improving access to STEM for under-represented groups

Friday January 10, 2025 12:15 - 13:05 GMT

Physics C30

Since 2021, ASE have been working with schools across England to improve their inclusive practice. Our programme ‘Inclusion in Schools’ took a whole school approach to creating a welcoming, safe environment for all children to engage in learning. An ASE consultant worked 1:1 with senior leaders to support them in delivering their vision for inclusion by developing an action plan where focus points were decided through data collection and analysis, consideration of whole school priorities and policies, school demographic and resources. Schools were then provided with timetabled CPD, regular networking opportunities, ongoing evaluation meetings with their consultant, and relevant resource to help them meet their goals. 93% of senior leaders on the programme agreed being part of Inclusion in Schools increased the inclusive culture across the school.

ASE’s Inclusion in Science was an online CPD programme focused on using inclusive techniques to engage students, specifically in science. Over 6 modules, participants learnt how adjusting their language, pedagogy and curriculum can help every student feel that science is for them. The course has been praised for being engaging, informative, thought-provoking, and evidence-based, with an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere for sharing ideas. Participants have called it ‘transformative’ and:
‘An absolutely brilliant course that allows you to think deeply about your pedogeological practice’
All of ASE’s work aims to create an environment where students who are underrepresented in STEM are better engaged and inspired in their education and broaden their aspirations.

This session will:
1.Introduce why inclusion work is important to increase diversity in STEM.
2.Reflect on the key take aways from Inclusion in Schools and Inclusion in Science.
3.Showcase ASE’s current offers which now include primary and international secondary schools.

Speakers

Rebecca Peacock

Director of CPD, Association for Science Education

Rebecca's primary purpose is to lead on the development and delivery of a comprehensive and impactful learning and continuing professional development (CPD) programme for ASE members and the wider science education community.

Friday January 10, 2025 12:15 - 13:05 GMT
Physics C30

11-19

Theme Inclusion and Diversity including SEND
Key Stage / Audience Type ECTs, Teacher Developers, Industry, Global, 11-14
Twitter feed @theASE

12:15 GMT

CLEAPSS Hands-on Workshop drop-in

Friday January 10, 2025 12:15 - 13:05 GMT

ESLC A09 A

A chance to gets hands-on making equipment and carrying out the latest CLEAPSS practicals

Speakers

Matt Endean

Deputy Director, CLEAPSS

Friday January 10, 2025 12:15 - 13:05 GMT
ESLC A09 A

11-19

Theme Practical Work
Key Stage / Audience Type 11-14, 14-16, Post-16, Technicians
Twitter feed @CLEAPSS

12:15 GMT

CLEAPSS: The rise of microscale chemistry

Friday January 10, 2025 12:15 - 13:05 GMT

ESLC C01

A look at the latest developments in the rising area of chemistry education; Microscale chemistry

Speakers

Magda Polec

Chemistry Advisor, CLEAPSS

Bob Worley

CLEAPSS

Friday January 10, 2025 12:15 - 13:05 GMT
ESLC C01

11-19

Theme Sustainability climate change & environmental issues
Key Stage / Audience Type ECTs, Global, Industry, Teacher Developers, 11-14, 14-16, Post-16
Twitter feed @CLEAPSS

12:15 GMT

Diversifying the secondary science curriculum - a case study

Friday January 10, 2025 12:15 - 13:05 GMT

Coates C22

This session looks at how a multi-academy trust developed a DEI vision and implemented that in the curriculum and resourcing of secondary science.

Speakers

Natalie Johnston

Trust Wide Subject Lead (Science), David Ross Education Trust

Natalie is a Trust Wide lead for Science for a MAT. She holds a BSc Hons in Human Genetics from Newcastle University, QTS from Bishop Grosseteste College Lincoln, MEd Educational Leadership from University of Buckingham and has just been offered a place to study MSc in Teacher Education... Read More →

Emma Swift

Deputy Headteacher, Alvaston Moor Academy

Friday January 10, 2025 12:15 - 13:05 GMT
Coates C22

11-19

Theme Inclusion and Diversity including SEND
Key Stage / Audience Type ECTs, Global, Selected by Teacher Developers' Group, Teacher Developers, 11-14, 14-16, Post-16
Twitter feed @Johnston_Nat_; @emmaswift

12:15 GMT

Good practical science: planning for progression

Friday January 10, 2025 12:15 - 13:05 GMT

Pope LT C17

Practical work in KS3 Science is often framed as an activity and may not represent good progression from the primary phase. This workshop will propose a way of ensuring students are challenged and supported to develop their skills and understanding of Working Scientifically, building foundations for GCSE.

Speakers

Marianne Cutler

Director, Policy and Curriculum Innovation, ASE

Marianne has overall responsibility for curriculum support and projects at the ASE. She works closely with ASE committees and manages professional development projects.

Ed Walsh

Science Education Consultant, Ed Walsh Consulting

Friday January 10, 2025 12:15 - 13:05 GMT
Pope LT C17

11-19

Theme Practical Work
Key Stage / Audience Type 11-14, 14-16, ECTs, Teacher Developers

12:15 GMT

Making Climate Action Plans impactful

Friday January 10, 2025 12:15 - 13:05 GMT

Pope LT C15

We all need Climate Action Plans and Sustainability Leads but how do we make them impactful to deliver the scale of change needed at the pace that's needed? This presentation will describe the journey we are undertaking at Hills Road Sixth Form College in Cambridge. A summary of our thinking behind the journey can be read in an article entitled 'The role of the education sector in shaping a sustainable future' in the Journal of Biological Education here: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/00219266.2024.2288418.

This presentation will cover:
•Developing a culture for sustainability in an organisation
•How to reduce your institution's carbon footprint
•Ways to incorporate sustainability into the curriculum
•Enhancing careers education
•Developing a voice to push for change.

Whether you are in initial teacher education, an early career teacher, an experienced teacher, someone with management responsibilities or in an organisation supporting the education sector you can be part of driving this agenda forward. There are a vast number of organisations supporting the education sector to move forward with sustainability and this can be daunting at times. This talk aims to give you concrete ideas for taking back to your organisation to help drive the change needed at the pace that's needed.

Speakers

Chris Graham

Sustainability Lead and Teacher of Biology, Hills Road Sixth Form College / SAPS

I am the Sustainability Lead and a Biology teacher at Hills Road Sixth Form College as well as the visiting teacher at Science and Plants for Schools (SAPS).I have 20 years experience in education and have been leading biology departments for most of that time although I recently... Read More →

Friday January 10, 2025 12:15 - 13:05 GMT
Pope LT C15

11-19

Theme Sustainability climate change & environmental issues
Key Stage / Audience Type ECTs, Global, Industry, Teacher Developers, Selected by Teacher Developers' Group, 11-14, 14-16, Post-16, ITEs
Twitter feed @DrGraham

12:15 GMT

SAPS: Biology practicals that work drop-in session

Friday January 10, 2025 12:15 - 13:05 GMT

ESLC A09 B

Speakers

Alex Jenkin

Project Manager, Science and Plants for Schools (SAPS)

Dan Jenkins

Head of Gatsby Plant Education Programme, Science and Plants for Schools (SAPS)

Gail Webdell

Science Technician, SAPS

Friday January 10, 2025 12:15 - 13:05 GMT
ESLC A09 B

11-19

Theme Practical Work
Key Stage / Audience Type 11-14, 14-16, Post-16, Advisors/Consultants, Trainees, Technicians

12:15 GMT

Supporting students in developing effective revision strategies

Friday January 10, 2025 12:15 - 13:05 GMT

Pope A34

It may seem obvious but revising/studying for an exam improves student outcomes on the exam. However, how students revise and the strategies they use can have a big influence on these outcomes. In recent years, evidence drawn from cognitive psychology has given teachers a much better insight and understanding of effective teaching and study strategies. However, the students may not be utilising these strategies when undertaking independent study.

In this session we will explore the evidence base into effective revision strategies and present findings from our recent study that focussed on developing effective revision strategies for GCSE science. Findings suggest that a sequenced approach to revision is helpful and that effective techniques need to be taught and embedded into the curriculum.

Speakers

Gareth Bates

Senior Lecturer, Anglia Ruskin University

Sibel Kaya

Research Fellow, University of Bedfordshire

Friday January 10, 2025 12:15 - 13:05 GMT
Pope A34

11-19

Theme Research
Key Stage / Audience Type ECTs, Global, Industry, Teacher Developers, Selected by Research Group, 14-16, ITEs, Advisors/Consultants, Trainees

12:15 GMT

Coding for climate action - empowering students to tackle environmental challenges through computer science

Friday January 10, 2025 12:15 - 13:05 GMT

ESLC B04

Coding for Climate Action is an innovative cross-curricular program that empowers KS2 and KS3 students to explore climate change issues and design solutions using code and micro:bit inventions. Developed in partnership with Digitall, this comprehensive curriculum provides ready-to-use lesson plans, student journals, slide decks, and other resources to seamlessly integrate computer science into science and sustainability education.

The program is built around an anchoring phenomenon - the increasing frequency and severity of natural disasters worldwide. Students are challenged to create early warning systems and other digital solutions to mitigate the impacts of climate change. Through this real-world, relevant context, they develop key computational thinking skills like coding, data analysis, and problem-solving, while also cultivating creativity and a solutions-oriented mindset.

Aligned to the national curriculum, the Coding for Climate Action materials include detailed lesson plans, student activity journals, exemplars, and comprehensive curriculum maps. Designed as a plug-and-play unit, the resources make it easy for teachers to swap these engaging climate-focused lessons into their existing schemes of work.

Whether you're looking to inject more climate education into your computing curriculum or bring computational skills into your science lessons, this session will equip you with the tools and strategies to empower your students as the next generation of climate leaders and digital innovators. Join us to explore how Coding for Climate Action can ignite students' passion for addressing environmental challenges through computer science.

Speakers

Vojtech Tichavsky

Amazon Future Engineers

Sponsors

Amazon in the Community

Amazon is here to make a difference in the world, in a way unique to Amazon. With a culture built around solving “impossible” problems, we take a different, more hands-on approach to what is traditionally known as corporate philanthropy. We know that money is important, but we... Read More →

Friday January 10, 2025 12:15 - 13:05 GMT
ESLC B04

All

Theme Sustainability climate change & environmental issues
Key Stage / Audience Type 11-14, Global, ECTs, Teacher Developers, 7 to 11

12:15 GMT

How can the science of early brain development strengthen outcomes for children?

Friday January 10, 2025 12:15 - 13:05 GMT

ESLC B01

Could the inclusion of the science of early brain development in the national curriculum build the skills and knowledge we need to close the attainment gap and build the next generation of parents and citizens? This session will take the form of a panel discussion on the science of early child development and the long-term impact that early experiences can have on the life chances of every child.

It will talk about the changes we could make to society and education through teaching children about early child development and hear from teachers who have done this by teaching the SEEN Curriculum. Speakers will be key players in education, and science leads/teachers who have taught the Kindred² SEEN programme to KS2/KS3 students.

The session will end with a Q&A and discussion with delegates, and we will be keen to hear your thoughts and questions

Suitable for early years, primary, secondary or policy audience with an interest in curricula and new approaches to teaching.
The SEEN Programme was developed in collaboration with Oxford University and two Expert Advisory Groups.
Kindred² is a charitable foundation working collaboratively with partner organisations to improve early education and early child development.

Kindred² is proud to be sponsoring this session for the ASE at its' 2025 Annual Conference.

Speakers

Felicity Gillespie

CEO, Kindred Squared

Felicity Gillespie is the Chief Executive of Kindred2, a private foundation focused on improving the quality of early childhood development. She is currently a member of the independent expert panel advising Sir David Bell’s Review of Early Years, commissioned by the Labour Party.Felicity... Read More →

Liz Robinson

CEO, Bid Education

Liz is a school and system leader, passionate about asking bigger questions about what school can or should be about and working with others to make that a reality. Liz began her headship back in 2006, and leads from a clear vision of education which acknowledges the reality of children... Read More →

Molly Devlin

Headteacher, Arkstart

Molly is the Headteacher at Ark Start, a nursery group based in London as well as the Early Years Network Lead for Ark Schools, leading curriculum, teaching and learning and assessment across the Ark Primary schools in Birmingham, Portsmouth, Hastings and London. Prior to this, Molly... Read More →

Friday January 10, 2025 12:15 - 13:05 GMT
ESLC B01

All

Theme Curriculum and New Teaching Approaches
Key Stage / Audience Type ECTs, Global, Teacher Developers, 0-4, 5 to 7, 7 to 11, 11-14, 14-16, Post-16, ITEs, Advisors/Consultants, FE/Skills, Industry, Technicians, Trainees

12:15 GMT

Frontier Science: What makes a spider fly? And other stories from the Open Air Laboratories project

Friday January 10, 2025 12:15 - 13:05 GMT

Coates C27

How clean is the air that surrounds you where you live or that you breathe on your walk to school or work? Are there as many insects as there should there be in your garden or local park and does this number matter?
These kinds of starter questions have been used successfully to engage participants throughout the UK in a Citizen Science initiative called the ‘Open Air Laboratories Project’. Insights gained have helped shape the creation and implementation of scientific learning resources that can be adapted for use in diverse groups and settings, to improve understanding not only of our environment, but of more complex ideas such as ‘connectivity’ and ‘change’.

Speakers

Sara Goodacre

Professor, University of Nottingham (School of Life Sciences)

Friday January 10, 2025 12:15 - 13:05 GMT
Coates C27

Frontier Science

Theme Frontier Science
Key Stage / Audience Type ECTs, 5 to 7, 7 to 11, 11-14, 14-16, Post-16, ITEs, FE/Skills, Technicians, Trainees

12:15 GMT

Technicians: Climate Change - how to show the effects through practical science

Friday January 10, 2025 12:15 - 13:05 GMT

Chemistry Lab C10 B

Climate change and the effects of pollution are very much hot topics in the new today. Through practical science it is possible for students to observe the efects, be it the rise of atmospheric CO2, the effecto of acid rain or the effect of polluted water courses on aquatic ecosystems. This workshop will show simple but effective experiments that will demonstrate these effects.

Speakers

Rachael Bailey

Science Technician, The Orme Academy

I've been a school science technician since 2010, currently a senior science technician at The Orme Academy part of Shaw Education Trust, previous to this I was a senior analytical chemist in the pharmaceutical industry. I am also part of the North Midlands Science Learning Partnership... Read More →

Friday January 10, 2025 12:15 - 13:05 GMT
Chemistry Lab C10 B

Technicians

Theme Practical Work
Key Stage / Audience Type Technicians

12:15 GMT

Technicians: Osmosis and diffusion

Friday January 10, 2025 12:15 - 13:05 GMT

Chemistry Lab C10 A

NOT…… Just those things with chips and air fresheners??

Refresh or learn other simple ways to show these dear old science topics.

Try out an Osmosis circus and Diffusion demos, particularly aimed at Technicians new to the role.

Speakers

Jenny Baker

Science Technician, The Corby Sixth Form College

Friday January 10, 2025 12:15 - 13:05 GMT
Chemistry Lab C10 A

Technicians

Theme Practical Work
Key Stage / Audience Type Technicians
Twitter feed @theASE

12:15 GMT

Technicians: TBC

Friday January 10, 2025 12:15 - 13:05 GMT

Physics lab

Friday January 10, 2025 12:15 - 13:05 GMT
Physics lab

Technicians

Theme Practical Work
Key Stage / Audience Type Technicians

13:15 GMT

An easy intro to AI- machines of the future

Friday January 10, 2025 13:15 - 14:05 GMT

Physics B23

This session will look at free resources developed by the Royal Society, British Science Association and Google Deep Mind that form an easy introduction to the concepts of AI, and will get your students imaginations racing, thinking about what the machines of the future might be able to do. Perfect as an intro to the topic either for STEM clubs, or in the curriculum. For years 5-8

Speakers

Estelle Whewell

Partnerships Manager, British Science Association

Friday January 10, 2025 13:15 - 14:05 GMT
Physics B23

All

Theme Using AI to deliver the science curriculum
Key Stage / Audience Type ECTs, Teacher Developers, Industry, Global, 11-14, 7 to 11

13:15 GMT

Enabling learners to think about their thinking in science

Friday January 10, 2025 13:15 - 14:05 GMT

Pope A34

A recent Education Endowment Foundation (EEF) evidence review of metacognition and self-regulated learning (Muijs & Bokhove, 2020) suggests that enabling learners to apply metacognitive strategies in the classroom can have a high impact on learning outcomes. The summary guidance report (https://educationendowmentfoundation.org.uk/education-evidence/guidance-reports/metacognition) identifies seven recommendations and these include setting an appropriate level of challenge and promoting metacognitive talk between learners during whole class dialogue.

Metacognition and cognitive conflict are two of the key pedagogical pillars that underpin the seminal research into Cognitive Acceleration, established in 1981 by Michael Shayer, Philip Adey and Carolyn Yates at King's College, London. In this research, metacognition is defined as a learner’s ability to ‘think about their thinking’. The professional learning programme and teaching resources, arising from this work, translated this research into a series of classroom lessons, initially within the context of secondary science (CASE). Since its inception, the theoretical principles of Cognitive Acceleration have been applied across different age phases (5-11 years) and curriculum subjects (e.g. maths CAME) and English (LTE)). Collectively, these learning, teaching and professional development resources provide practical classroom approaches aimed at enabling learners to develop their ability to think and think about their thinking.

The EEF review of metacognition and self-regulated learning draws attention to understanding the differences between developing a learner’s knowledge of how they think, the strategies they employ to achieve this and their ability to select, regulate and evaluate the effectiveness of using different strategies. Findings within this review also suggest that teaching metacognitive and self-regulated strategies discretely, outside of the curriculum as stand-alone ‘thinking lessons’ is less effective and calls for teachers to identify subject specific teaching opportunities where metacognitive strategies can be applied appropriately within curriculum subjects.
In this interactive workshop, a team of current CA tutors and those involved in the research will draw from these materials to offer some classroom strategies (and insights) that will support you in enabling learners to think about their thinking in science in today's classroom. This session will include presentation, interaction and professional reflection . We will revisit the theory behind Cognitive Acceleration and model teaching approaches that bring this theory to life in a science classroom. Within the context of both secondary and primary science, this session will support you to consider:

How do I establish a learning environment that promotes a culture of thinking and curiosity?
How can I introduce an appropriate level of collaborative challenge in my science lessons?
How might I employ classroom dialogue (metacognitive talk) to facilitate challenge (and conflict) and metacognition in my science lessons?

Speakers

Natasha Serret

Senior Lecturer in Education, Nottingham Trent University

Dr. Natasha Serret BA (Hons) MA PGCE SFHEAPrimary BA Joint Course LeaderSenior Lecturer in EducationNottingham Trent UniversityNottingham Institute of Education

Alex Black

Owner, ABC-Learning

CASE materials https://community.letsthink.org.uk/

Friday January 10, 2025 13:15 - 14:05 GMT
Pope A34

All

Theme Other
Key Stage / Audience Type ECTs, Global, Teacher Developers, 7 to 11, 11-14, 14-16, ITEs, Trainees, Advisors/Consultants

13:15 GMT

Making classification relevant

Friday January 10, 2025 13:15 - 14:05 GMT

Physics A01

From biodiversity loss to the impacts of climate change, classification is a foundational skill for understanding many ecological problems. Based on work from the Natural History Museum's Urban Nature Project, participants will classify insects in real samples and explore how classification helps people understand ecological problems and find better solutions. This practical session also gives participants a taster of some of the lab work which often follows summer biology field work, presenting a range of resources and ideas for use in the classroom.

This session uses insects collected in light traps, which many nature reserves and biologists use to monitor moth populations. These traps also collect a wide range of small flying insects which are often simply released or discarded. One of the main barriers to scientists being able to tap into this potential source of information is lack of time to sort through samples. While identification of individual species can be very difficult, classification of specimens to the much broader order level is much more accessible (piloted with students as young as year 4). Classification to this level is still a valuable contribution, allowing samples to get to the right specialist much more quickly.

This session also presents a vision for how schools might partner with local nature reserves and biologists. Schools would be able to provide engaging, real-world, science practicals for their students, while also contributing to scientists’ understanding of the biodiversity and ecology of their area.

Speakers

Victor Heng

Outdoor Learning Programme Developer, Natural History Museum

Friday January 10, 2025 13:15 - 14:05 GMT
Physics A01

All

Theme Practical Work
Key Stage / Audience Type ECTs, Global, Industry, Teacher Developers, 7 to 11, 11-14, 14-16
Twitter feed @vheng0001

13:15 GMT

Presidential Address: Mind the gap! Challenging inequalities in school science engagement and participation

Friday January 10, 2025 13:15 - 14:05 GMT

Pope LT C15

School science continues to face intense challenges – from declining student interest, aspirations and confidence in science to longstanding inequalities in participation, underpinned by chronic underfunding, understaffing and overburdening of teachers. These issues negatively impact all schools but are particularly amplified by social inequalities. So how can we best address the ASE pledge to support equity and inclusion in science?

This presentation shares insights from large scale longitudinal research conducted with over 47,000 children and young people in England that identified the key factors shaping students’ trajectories into/away from science from age 10-22. It also draws on collaborative research and development work conducted over 8 years by primary and secondary teachers and researchers, to develop practical, easy-to-implement ways forward, resulting in happier teachers, more engaged students and more equitable participation in science.

Speakers

Professor Louise Archer

ASE President / Karl Mannheim Chair of Sociology of Education, UCL Institute of Education

I am currently the Karl Mannheim Professor of Sociology of Education at UCL IOE (2017-) and co-chair of the Sociology Activity Group (with Jessica Ringrose). Previously I was Professor of Sociology of Education at King's College London, where I was also the Director of the Centre... Read More →

Friday January 10, 2025 13:15 - 14:05 GMT
Pope LT C15

All

Twitter feed @theASE

13:15 GMT

Unlocking student success: The hidden power of teaching physics hinterland

Friday January 10, 2025 13:15 - 14:05 GMT

Physics C29

What is the banana equivalent dose? How does a fire piston work? What is going on in clouds? How does UV nail polish work? How do turtles return to the same beach to lay their eggs? What physics is in your local area?
Who was Emily du Chatelet? Or Lise Meitner? Or Marguerite Perey? And why are these questions important?

During the lockdowns Kerry spent time developing a 'Physics of .... 'series of CPD sessions to engage more students and bring physics to life. She'll share ideas from Physics of the weather, Physics of animals, Physics of beauty and more. We'll look at practicals, starters, literacy activities using different contexts and how using these can help students be more confident in tackling application questions in exams.

Speakers

Henry Hammond

Stimulating Physics Network (SPN) Lead, Stimulating Physics Network (SPN)

Kerry Colyer

Stimulating Physics Network (SPN) lead, Stimulating Physics Network (SPN)

Friday January 10, 2025 13:15 - 14:05 GMT
Physics C29

All

Theme Inclusion and Diversity including SEND
Key Stage / Audience Type ECTs, Global, Industry, Teacher Developers, 7 to 11, 11-14, 14-16

13:15 GMT

Formative assessment without pencils

Friday January 10, 2025 13:15 - 14:05 GMT

ESLC B05

Improving oracy through the Great Science Share for Schools. Prompts for talk offer ideal ways to formatively assess pupil’s learning in science. Find out more about the GSSfS Toolkit and the many ways in which you can promote discussion between pupils.

Speakers

Grace Marson

SEERIH Specialist Lead, University of Manchester

Frances Hunt

SEERIH Specialist Officer, SEERIH, University of Manchester

Friday January 10, 2025 13:15 - 14:05 GMT
ESLC B05

Primary

Theme Assessment
Key Stage / Audience Type 7 to 11, ECTs, Global, Teacher Developers, 5 to 7, 11-14
Twitter feed @UoMSEERIH

13:15 GMT

Frames for Learning: Applying Psychology and Cognitive Science in Class

Friday January 10, 2025 13:15 - 14:05 GMT

Chemistry LT X2 (with sink)

Frames for Learning (F4L) is a CPD programme for teachers and their teaching assistants which aims to improve science attainment by scaffolding how teachers and pupils approach multi-staged science tasks. F4L is an EEF funded pipeline project that recently completed its pilot phase (September 2023- July 2024).

The F4L programme aims to increase pupils’ recall, knowledge, and understanding in science, by supporting teachers to use the F4L approach. This approach can be integrated into the existing curriculum, and supports teachers to develop and deliver lessons which optimise the amount of information children must process at once (cognitive load), whilst building on pre-existing knowledge and understanding (schema development) to support learning outcomes.

Y5 teachers from 20 primary schools in South Yorkshire and neighbouring regions participated in the pilot. Training took place through a mix of face-to-face and online CPD sessions. Initially, teachers were trained to use worked examples that they could apply immediately. The training programme culminated in teachers planning and delivering their own lessons using the F4L approach. Alongside these applied skills, attendees gained an appreciation of how applied psychology and cognitive science can make a difference to teaching and learning in the primary classroom.

This interactive workshop is hosted by the lead developers of the F4L programme: Andy Bullough and Diarmuid Verrier. The workshop is suitable for teachers and teaching assistants. It will cover key issues that arose during the pilot phase as teachers applied the F4L approach within their classroom and will describe the ways in which the approach supports primary science education.

The ‘frame’ itself is an elegantly simple and readily accessible approach and curriculum tool used to develop a scaffolded pedagogy to science enquiry in KS2 science activities that supports the progress of all learners, including disadvantaged learners.

During the session an exemplar frame activity will be used to consider how the frame can help good practice in the classroom, through the application of cognitive science concepts and principles such as focus, attention, cognitive load theory, schema development, dialogic approaches and meta cognition in the classroom setting.

Building the frame into lesson plans can help ensure that children are ‘on task’ and focused on the intended activity, that they are learning the required curriculum content, and that they are successfully achieving the learning objectives of the task.

By attending this workshop, delegates will develop an enhanced appreciation of how cognitive science approaches can be applied in the classroom. In addition, this is an opportunity to learn more about the frames approach in particular, as well as possible future F4L CPD opportunities.

Speakers

Andy Bullough

Senior Research Fellow, Sheffield Hallam University

I am a senior research fellow at Sheffield Institute of Education's Centre for Research and Knowledge Exchange. My interests focus on curriculum development, especially in terms of the design of teaching and learning resources and their associated theories. I work on projects with... Read More →

Diarmuid Verrier

Senior lecturer applied developmental psychology, Sheffield Hallam University.

Friday January 10, 2025 13:15 - 14:05 GMT
Chemistry LT X2 (with sink)

Primary

Theme Curriculum and New Teaching Approaches
Key Stage / Audience Type ECTs, Teacher Developers, Global, 7 to 11, Advisors/Consultants, ITEs, Trainees

13:15 GMT

Improving inclusion and diversity with 1001 Inventions

Friday January 10, 2025 13:15 - 14:05 GMT

ESLC B07

How lighting up the ‘dark ages’ with '1001 Inventions from the East' can enrich the teaching of science in our ethnically diverse society. Award-winning educational producer and philanthropist Ahmed Salim shares how millions of educators use ‘1001 Inventions’ freely available materials to enrich the teaching of science, helping learners celebrate diversity, improve inclusion, and inspire further interest in science. These materials, produced by Ahmed Salim, explore the cultural roots of science with a focus on a period known as the ‘Golden Age of Arabic Science’. They include short films (featuring Oscar winner Sir Ben Kingsley, the legendary Omar Sharif, and scientist Professor Jim Al-Khalili), live science theatre shows, school science fairs, and extensive hands-on workshop guides, along with impact evaluation methods.

Speakers

Ahmed Salim

Founder and Director, 1001 Inventions

Ahmed Salim is the founder and director of ‘1001 Foundation’, whose educational programs have engaged more than 450 million people around the world, working through a network of institutions such as UNESCO, National Geographic, The Royal Society, Science Museum of London, The... Read More →

Friday January 10, 2025 13:15 - 14:05 GMT
ESLC B07

Primary

Theme Inclusion and Diversity including SEND
Key Stage / Audience Type ECTs, Global, Teacher Developers, 11-14, 7 to 11

13:15 GMT

Inclusive approaches to practical primary science

Friday January 10, 2025 13:15 - 14:05 GMT

ESLC C01

Come along and explore a range of inclusive approaches to practical primary science to support all learners to succeed within your curriculum and science enrichment programmes.

The session will include:

- My Science Club strategies to reduce cognitive load on learners and develop independence in their own learning.
- Scaffolding approaches to support all learners to record and analyse their findings.
- Appropriate use of explicit instruction to support all learners to take part in practical activities.

Speakers

Bryony Turford

Primary Science Professional Development Leader, My Science Club

Paul Tyler

Owner / Director, My Science Club

Primary school teacher and Science Coordinator in a large primary school just outside Glasgow. Interested in all things primary science, Science Capital transitions to secondary and anything to do with Topical Science and Citizen Science. I produce a monthly Topical Science Update... Read More →

Friday January 10, 2025 13:15 - 14:05 GMT
ESLC C01

Primary

Theme Inclusion and Diversity including SEND
Key Stage / Audience Type ECTs, Teacher Developers, Global, 5 to 7, 7 to 11, 11-14
Twitter feed @my_scienceclub

13:15 GMT

The roles of parents in promoting their children’s interest toward science

Friday January 10, 2025 13:15 - 14:05 GMT

Pope LT C17

The focus of our research is to inform how classroom science practice can be improved through effective engagement with parents in an out of school science club.

The focus participant samples are families from ethnic diverse backgrounds from The Meadows in Nottingham. Both parents and their children explore different scientific concepts from the EYFS or National Curriculum and develop their use of scientific vocabulary.

Parents are an important factor to the collaboration of home-school communication. In the session, they reflect on their school experiences and reflect on their science learning. They use their own unique experiences and life journey to present scientific learning in the classroom.

Providing contextual learning linked to the seasons/weather/local habitats allows the children to experience science daily and engage in everyday conversations using their scientific literacy.

By providing effectively engaging sessions, we are building a community of families that can envisage careers for their children in the world of science. The children build confidence in themselves as scientific explorers and can feel what it means to think like a scientist.

The co-collaboration of parents has enlightened us on their invaluable support for encouraging and supporting their children’s learning away from school.

As the majority of our families have English as a second language and some children also have SEND, we are proactive in promoting effective use of scientific literacy and scientific vocabulary.

We have observed children’s and their parents’ engagement and enthusiasm grow over the past 18 months. We have identified language as a barrier for communicating abstract concepts but have found that using the right approach and apparatus, we are able to teach the learning objectives clearly.

The approaches we have used are self-narration; short simple direct instructional language for processes and challenge; verbal feedback from the parents, praise and encouragement for the children. Importantly we have found that reflection on the learning also helps consolidate the new learning, ready for the next session.

Interestingly, we have applied adapted approaches to the input but have retained the same outcome for all of the children in attendance. We have noticed that the competency of children’s first language at home also correlates with the engagement of science learning. They can be imaginative and support this with language. They can create pictures mentally with the support of their parents in their first language. We call this ‘family learning’. Many of the families from the marginalised backgrounds express their desire for social mobility for the children and they believe that a firm grounding in science is essential. Many of our parents are highly qualified from the country of birth and apply their knowledge to the sessions explaining what is happening to their children.

The children have developed essential skills such as listening, following instructions, asking questions, sharing, turn taking, drawing, explaining, relating their understanding to others, developing writing skills and collaborating in family learning.

Speakers

Jamila Hussain

Senior Lecturer, Bishop Grosseteste University

Saffron Science has been running for the past 18 months at The Meadows Library in The Meadows, Nottingham. This exploratory research investigates the views of the parents, what they have enjoyed, what they have found difficult and what they would like in the future. There is a focus... Read More →

Friday January 10, 2025 13:15 - 14:05 GMT
Pope LT C17

Primary

Theme Curriculum and New Teaching Approaches
Key Stage / Audience Type ECTs, Global, Teacher Developers, 0-4, 5 to 7, 7 to 11

13:15 GMT

Technicians: Lunch

Friday January 10, 2025 13:15 - 14:05 GMT

Chemistry Building Foyer

This lunch is specifically for those who have purchased a Technician ticket for the day - come along, eat, drink and be merry whilst networking with other science technicians.

Speakers

Fiona Roberts RSciTech

Senior Science Technician / Chair of ASE Technicians Committee, Bolton School

Friday January 10, 2025 13:15 - 14:05 GMT
Chemistry Building Foyer

Technicians

Theme Practical Work
Key Stage / Audience Type Technicians

14:15 GMT

(Early Career) Teachers and Technicians - working together

Friday January 10, 2025 14:15 - 15:05 GMT

ESLC B01

Join the past Chair of the ASE's National Technician Committee for insights into school science technicians and teachers working together - how they collaborate to optimise best working practices!

Speakers

Jane Oldham

Lead Science Technician and Chair of ASE, De Ferrers Academy and Association for Science Education

Friday January 10, 2025 14:15 - 15:05 GMT
ESLC B01

11-19

Theme Practical Work
Key Stage / Audience Type 11-14, 14-16, Post-16, ECTs, Trainees
Twitter feed @theASE

14:15 GMT

AQA: Teaching Climate Change and Sustainability in GCSE science

Friday January 10, 2025 14:15 - 15:05 GMT

ESLC B07

In this session we will dive into the AQA science specifications and their newly published resource to discuss how current specifications can support students learning on sustainability and the environment. What more could be done to enhance these important topics across the sciences by adopting a more integrated approach?

Speakers

Natalie Vlachakis

Science Curriculum Manager, AQA

Natalie joined AQA in 2021 as a Curriculum Support Manager in Science. She has a BSc and PhD in biochemistry, and a PGCE in secondary science. Before joining AQA, Natalie was Head of Biology at an Oxfordshire school teaching mostly A-level Biology. Her current role involves talking... Read More →

Sponsors

AQA

Friday January 10, 2025 14:15 - 15:05 GMT
ESLC B07

11-19

Theme Sustainability climate change & environmental issues
Key Stage / Audience Type ECTs, Global, Industry, Teacher Developers, 11-14, 14-16, ITEs, Advisors/Consultants, Trainees
Twitter feed @Science_AQA

14:15 GMT

CLEAPSS Hands-on Workshop drop-in

Friday January 10, 2025 14:15 - 15:05 GMT

ESLC A09 A

A chance to gets hands-on making equipment and carrying out the latest CLEAPSS practicals

Speakers

Matt Endean

Deputy Director, CLEAPSS

Friday January 10, 2025 14:15 - 15:05 GMT
ESLC A09 A

11-19

Theme Practical Work
Key Stage / Audience Type 11-14, 14-16, Post-16, Technicians
Twitter feed @CLEAPSS

14:15 GMT

Delivery of a high-quality science curriculum without compromising wellbeing

Friday January 10, 2025 14:15 - 15:05 GMT

Coates C22

The pressure of delivering a high-quality curriculum and prioritising student success can often come at the expense of teaching, wellbeing and professional progress, and is an issue that affects all stages of the profession – from ECTS to seasoned educators.

This session will explore different strategies and resources available to help all science teachers juggle these competing demands.

Speakers

Andy Chandler-Grevatt

Senior Lecturer in Science Education, University of Brighton

Past ASE 11-19 Chair (2021-2022) and current Chair of Surrey and Sussex Region Curriculum Editor for Oxford University Press Smart Activate Senior Lecturer in Science Education, University of Brighton (ITE tutor) CSciTeach Talk to me about: assessment without testing, teacher... Read More →

Sponsors

Oxford University Press

Oxford University Press is the UK’s number one school science publisher. Learning changes lives – and we’re here to drive that change.We support people wherever and however they want to learn, so they can achieve their learning goals and uncover new possibilities. Today, we... Read More →

Friday January 10, 2025 14:15 - 15:05 GMT
Coates C22

11-19

Theme Wellbeing and Effective Working Practices
Key Stage / Audience Type Global, Selected by Teacher Developers' Group, Teacher Developers, 7 to 11, 11-14, 14-16
Twitter feed @Grevster73, @OUPSecondary

14:15 GMT

Enhancing science education by the ways of thinking and working in science

Friday January 10, 2025 14:15 - 15:05 GMT

ESLC B05

This work is based on research about Cognitive Acceleration in Science Education (CASE) and recent trends in science teaching, related to the integration of scientific practices and the development of critical thinking and high-order skills in students (Kuhn & Lerman, 2021; Merta Dhewa et al., 2017; Oliver & Venville, 2015; Osborne, 2014). The work describes a proposal for science teaching at a public high school in the United Kingdom (St Joseph’s Catholic High School, Slough, UK)

The proposal encompasses 15 teaching units that engage students in inquiring, modelling, and argumentation practices around challenging learning scenarios found in the National Curriculum for Physics. The learning scenarios confront students’ initial ideas and engage them in outlining initial models that will be confronted with the results of hands-on work that creates a need for exploring and understanding. The teacher’s guide is essential to trigger the social construction of knowledge and the development of metacognitive skills in students, through small-group and whole-group discussions. Argumentation is carefully scaffolded to stimulate students’ logical reasoning and to support them in the development of evidence-based conclusions.

In addition, the teaching units integrate specific episodes of the history of science providing meaningful contexts to understand how and why particular scientific explanatory models around big ideas related to energy, forces, or the properties and structure of matter were built. These episodes are meaningfully connected to the topic explored in any teaching unit and in combination with the experimental work and guided reasoning, provide a powerful approach to support the reconstruction of students’ initial models.

This work is part of a PhD thesis using a pre/post-research design to evaluate the impact of the intervention on students’ knowledge and skills. In addition, qualitative and quantitative methods will be applied to analyse students’ artefacts and the teacher and students interactions to develop a better understanding of the process that fosters cognitive development and scientific reasoning in students

References:
Kuhn, D., & Lerman, D. (2021). Yes but: Developing a critical stance toward evidence. International Journal of Science Education, 43(7), 1036-1053.
Merta Dhewa, K., Rosidin, U., Abdurrahman, A., & Suyatna, A. (2017). The development of Higher Order Thinking Skill (Hots) instrument assessment in physics study. IOSR Journal of Research & Method in Education (IOSR-JRME), 7(1), 26-32.
Oliver, M., & Venville, G. (2015). Cognitive acceleration through science education: The CASE for thinking through science. In The Routledge international handbook of research on teaching thinking (pp. 378-387). Routledge.
Osborne, J. (2014). Teaching scientific practices: Meeting the challenge of change. Journal of Science Teacher Education, 25(2), 177-196.
Suprapto, E., Sumiharsono, R., & Ramadhan, S. (2020). The Analysis of Instrument Quality to Measure the Students' Higher Order Thinking Skill in Physics Learning. Journal of Turkish Science Education, 17(4), 520-527.

Speakers

Alejandro Romero Munoz

Jaen University

Friday January 10, 2025 14:15 - 15:05 GMT
ESLC B05

11-19

Theme Curriculum and New Teaching Approaches
Key Stage / Audience Type ECTs, Global, Teacher Developers, 14-16

14:15 GMT

Integrated circuits in an integrated curriculum – computing in physics

Friday January 10, 2025 14:15 - 15:05 GMT

Physics lab

Cheap and easy to use microcontrollers such as Arduino, BBC Micro:bit, and the Crumble are an excellent way to enhance your 11-18 physics curriculum. In this session we showcase and practice how to integrate strands of the computing curriculum into the physics classroom with hands on demonstrations of how you can build on your students programming skills.

Programming RGB LEDs to model the life cycle of stars (KS5 Physics)

Coding a reaction time experiment (KS3-4 Physics)

Visualising potential divider circuits (KS4-5 Physics)

Sensing circuits and control (BTEC/Vocational) is presented as a curriculum case study:
We teach a module focusing on sensors and transducers as part of the Applied Science BTEC course. To escape the monotony of multimeters, we have adapted the scheme of work to incorporate Micro:Bits instead. Using simple breadboard circuits to connect various sensors to the Micro:Bit, and quick drag & drop coding to retrieve data from them, we get meaningful readings which can be immediately put into contextual applications. In one experiment we use a reed switch to sound a burglar alarm, in another we make an LED array tell the user if their plant’s soil is too wet, too dry or just right. Students leave equipped with the theoretical knowledge of how sensors work, the practical skills to use them in real-life scenarios, and the confidence to explore further.

Speakers

Jed Marshall

Lead Practitioner, Alexandra Park School

Friday January 10, 2025 14:15 - 15:05 GMT
Physics lab

11-19

Theme Practical Work
Key Stage / Audience Type ECTs, Global, Industry, Teacher Developers, 14-16, Post-16, Technicians, ITEs
Twitter feed @MarshallPhysics

14:15 GMT

Is Neuorodivergence a science superpower? Supporting neurodiverse teachers and students

Friday January 10, 2025 14:15 - 15:05 GMT

ESLC C01

In the evolving landscape of education, embracing neurodiversity is essential as more adolescents and adults become aware of their neurodiverse traits and the impact on their daily lives. There is greater acceptance in the science community that a neurodiverse team brings many benefits, but how can we adapt our learning environments to allow everyone to flourish? This session explores the hidden strengths and the needs of neurodivergent teachers and students. We will be exploring strategies to create supportive, inclusive science classrooms, and what needs to be addressed at the institution level.

The New ‘Normal’ and Neurodiversity
We will challenge traditional notions of normality, highlighting the unique strengths neurodivergent individuals bring to science, such as hyperfocus and creativity. Real-life examples will illustrate their significant contributions.

Supporting Neurodivergent Students and Teachers
Discover techniques to adapt activities and manage executive function challenges that are science specific. Share strategies to reduce the administrative burden on teachers. Participants will engage in designing inclusive science activities, promoting collaboration.

Creating a Supportive Environment
Latest research and case studies will showcase best practices for fostering an inclusive classroom. We will discuss recognising hidden struggles and promoting well-being for both students and teachers.

Interactive and Sensory-Friendly
We are requesting dimmed lighting and flexible seating, so that this session ensures comfort for all attendees. Open discussions will allow sharing of experiences and solutions.

Join us to unlock the potential of neurodivergent learners and educators, making science education inclusive for all.

Speakers

Rachel Hartley

Pedagogy and Professional Practice Strategic Lead, Institute of Physics

Carole Kenrick

School-based teacher educator and CPD provider (Professional Support Coach at the Institute of Physics), Institute of Physics

Friday January 10, 2025 14:15 - 15:05 GMT
ESLC C01

11-19

Theme Inclusion and Diversity including SEND
Key Stage / Audience Type ECTs, Global, Teacher Developers, 11-14, 14-16, Post-16, FE/Skills, ITEs, Trainees, Advisors/Consultants
Twitter feed @rachelphysics

14:15 GMT

Mastering effective pedagogy with the RSC's new on demand course

Friday January 10, 2025 14:15 - 15:05 GMT

Pope LT C17

Join us for a dynamic, one-hour introductory session focused on mastering pedagogy in light of the RSC’s new on-line, on-demand course ‘Effective Pedagogy’. This session features a panel of expert authors and educators who will provide valuable insights into essential pedagogical topics, such as cognitive science and checking for understanding. Our experts will share their experiences and successful practices, offering practical strategies to enhance teaching effectiveness and student learning outcomes. Find out how you can make the most of the RSC’s fully funded teaching resources and the RSC’s ‘Education in Chemistry’ magazine articles alongside the on-demand course as part of your professional teaching journey.

Speakers

Katherine Hartop

Digital Engagement Executive, Royal Society of Chemistry

Abby Bunting

Royal Society of Chemistry

Sponsors

Royal Society of Chemistry

We are an international organisation connecting chemical scientists with each other, with other scientists, and with society as a whole. Founded in 1841, we have an international membership of over 50,000 and exist to give everyone in the chemical sciences the resources, connections... Read More →

Friday January 10, 2025 14:15 - 15:05 GMT
Pope LT C17

11-19

Theme Professional Journeys
Key Stage / Audience Type 14-16, Trainees, ECTs, 11-14, Post-16, Global, Teacher Developers

14:15 GMT

Nature-based enrichment of the secondary curriculum: A biology and physics focus

Friday January 10, 2025 14:15 - 15:05 GMT

Chemistry lab B5

School grounds will almost all have a variety of habitats and microclimates – even if just unkempt vegetation, a tree or two, asphalt and all-weather sports “grass”. These can be the starting point for helping students to discover how our urban spaces can be developed to influence resilience climate change, even if first learning is to suggest what not to do! For the future, school grounds will play a very significant role in schools’ Climate Action Plans.
The Coop Manchester Academy, 11-16, has been a pilot school for the National Education Nature Park (NENP). This session will look at the progress made with the steps that they have taken with their outside space and the impact that this is having within the formal curriculum across the sciences for instance in fieldwork, and in a multitude of ways outside it. Richard (STEM lead and Science Technician) and Aimee (physics and science teacher) will have very practical advice about what the simplest steps can be to “greening” your grounds, the connections that offer support and developing change in your school.

School grounds are a haven for STEM in action – from engineering to ecology. Melissa will discuss how observations in hot weather can inspire learning in sometimes dull-to-teach areas of physics, bringing Science Capital to lessons, showing the difference that planning and planting for nature and climate can make. Infra-red images, and also low-cost infra-red thermometers, will show how the thermal picture of your school can be revealed – even though much of this can be found from simple experience on a hot day. This will link with teaching about e.g. latent heat – making very important biology connections with transpiration, specific heat capacity and materials, the e/m spectrum and the greenhouse effect. Resources for lessons on the NENP website will be referenced.

Delegate outcomes:
Awareness of
•how your school grounds, whatever their current state, can be a resource for learning
•links with specific parts of GCSE (and KS3) sciences
•material available on NENP website for connecting with 11-16 teaching in the sciences
•using infra-red thermometers and images – enlivening thermal physics and adding cross curricular dimensions
•steps to improve your school grounds for nature
•careers relevance in fields such as construction, landscape architecture, civil engineering, materials and urban design, as well as routes via ecology
•potential enhanced engagement of students in STEM climate relevant action and connections

Speakers

Melissa Lord

Independent consultant (previously physics teacher and HoScience), Ogden Trust

After a career in physics teaching, I work on a consultancy basis for the Ogden Trust "making physics matter" - as Regional Rep in the NW, and also occasionally with the PTI supporting physics and science teachers. Physics is about the joy of understanding the universe at all of its... Read More →

Aimee Hopper

Physics and Science teacher, Turton High School

Richard Simpson

STEM Lead and Science Technician, Coop Academy Manchester

Friday January 10, 2025 14:15 - 15:05 GMT
Chemistry lab B5

11-19

Theme Sustainability climate change & environmental issues
Key Stage / Audience Type ECTs, Global, Industry, Teacher Developers, 11-14, 14-16, Technicians, Trainees, Advisors/Consultants, ITEs
Twitter feed @melisa_lord16

14:15 GMT

SAPS: Biology practicals that work drop-in session

Friday January 10, 2025 14:15 - 15:05 GMT

ESLC A09 B

Speakers

Alex Jenkin

Project Manager, Science and Plants for Schools (SAPS)

Dan Jenkins

Head of Gatsby Plant Education Programme, Science and Plants for Schools (SAPS)

Gail Webdell

Science Technician, SAPS

Friday January 10, 2025 14:15 - 15:05 GMT
ESLC A09 B

11-19

Theme Practical Work
Key Stage / Audience Type 11-14, 14-16, Post-16, Advisors/Consultants, Trainees, Technicians

14:15 GMT

Is there time and space for climate change in the curriculum?

Friday January 10, 2025 14:15 - 15:05 GMT

Physics C30

This workshop will share the outcomes from two research projects investigating climate change education across the sector.

The first research project includes 14 case studies to find out how school leaders are tackling the Department for Education’s Climate Change and Sustainability Strategy in primary and secondary schools, colleges and at Multi-Academy Trust and local authority level.

The aims of research project two were: to explore teacher confidence in teaching aspects of climate change; and to gain an understanding of primary teachers ’needs to support effective climate change teaching and learning in different curriculum subjects.

Findings from both research projects will be summarised and themes drawn out. There will be an opportunity for participants to discuss and reflect on project outcomes and take away potential ideas to develop in their own schools and settings, as well as professional development providers.

Delegates will have:
•a greater understanding of how education settings are tackling the Department for Education’s Climate Change and Sustainability Strategy.
•insights into teachers ’confidence and understanding in teaching aspects of climate change and highlight issues of climate anxiety if any.
•considered the challenges of and explored some practical solutions to teaching climate change and sustainability (with a focus on primary subject leaders).

Speakers

Lee Jowett CSciTeach

Climate Change and Sustainability Fellow, Sheffield Hallam University Research and Knowledge Exchange Centre

Joelle Halliday

Senior Research Fellow, Sheffield Hallam University

Joelle designs, leads, and researches teacher professional development activity. She is Co-Director of the Wipro STEM Teacher Fellow and Teacher Mentor Programmes. The programmes aim to increase young people's enjoyment, attainment, and progression in the STEM subjects by supporting... Read More →

Friday January 10, 2025 14:15 - 15:05 GMT
Physics C30

All

Theme Sustainability climate change & environmental issues
Key Stage / Audience Type ECTs, Global, Industry, Teacher Developers, 5 to 7, 7 to 11, 11-14, 14-16, Trainees, ITEs, Advisors/Consultants, Selected by Teacher Developers' Group
Twitter feed @leejowett

14:15 GMT

Should we use Retrieval Practice? Moving towards Retrieval-based Learning

Friday January 10, 2025 14:15 - 15:05 GMT

Pope A34

In recent years, education in England has seen a move towards ‘evidenced-based’ practice with the Department for Education privileging ideas and practice drawn from cognitive science.

An area that has gained significant interest is that of ‘retrieval practice’. On the face of it, retrieval practice appears to be an intuitive and easy to implement strategy for a teacher, as it requires students to retrieve (remember) information from their long-term memory, rather than passively restudy it. The act of deliberately retrieving information then improves the retention and later retrieval of that information, which is often referred to as the ‘testing effect’.

Despite there being strong evidence that retrieval practice supports learning, there are a number of issues that teachers should be aware of when translating the research into effective classroom practice.

This session aims to share some of the issues that retrieval practice research raises for teachers and discusses some key consideration for teachers who already use or want to use retrieval-based strategies in their practice. Drawing on findings from two recent research projects, the concept of retrieval-based learning will be outlined, along with key ideas to support the development of effective and efficient strategies.

Speakers

Gareth Bates

Senior Lecturer, Anglia Ruskin University

Friday January 10, 2025 14:15 - 15:05 GMT
Pope A34

All

Theme Curriculum and New Teaching Approaches
Key Stage / Audience Type ECTs, Global, Industry, Teacher Developers, 5 to 7, 7 to 11, 11-14, 14-16, ITEs, Trainees

14:15 GMT

Frontier Science: Under the microscope - bringing electron microscopy to life for all audiences

Friday January 10, 2025 14:15 - 15:05 GMT

Coates C27

Electron Microscopy (EM) is a powerful tool that reveals structures at the micro and nanoscales, offering a unique window into the microscopic world. Despite its transformative capabilities, EM remains relatively unknown outside of academic circles, with minimal exposure in standard school curricula—briefly touched on at A-level biology. Yet, its potential to enhance learning goes far beyond the sciences. Imagine teaching cell biology by showing real EM images of different cell types, or bringing abstract concepts to life in subjects like history with stunning details of ancient glass.

Under the Microscope is a public engagement initiative designed around a simple yet exciting question: "What would you like to see imaged at the microscale?" This talk explores how EM can break down barriers and captivate diverse audiences. Since its inception in 2023, it has evolved from being purely online to being shown on TV, going international, and reaching local communities including children from SEND backgrounds.

Join Dr. Luke Norman as he demonstrates how a single concept can be adapted to reach different audiences through creative mediums. Like Ant-Man, get ready to shrink down and explore the fascinating world at the nanoscale, where every detail tells a story.

Speakers

Luke Norman

Knowledge Exchange Fellow, Nanoscale and Microscale Research Centre, University of Nottingham

Dr Luke NormanKnowledge Exchange FellowNanoscale and Microscale Research CentreE: Luke.norman2@nottingham.ac.uk W: https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/chemistry/people/luke.norman2Nanoscale and Microscale Research Centre (nmRC)W: www.nottingham.ac.uk/nmrcFollow uslinktr.ee/uonnmrc ... Read More →

Friday January 10, 2025 14:15 - 15:05 GMT
Coates C27

Frontier Science

Theme Frontier Science
Key Stage / Audience Type 7 to 11, 11-14, 14-16, Post-16, ECTs, Advisors/Consultants, Industry, ITEs, Teacher Developers, Technicians, Trainees, FE/Skills

14:15 GMT

Primary swap shop pops up

Friday January 10, 2025 14:15 - 15:05 GMT

Pope LT C15

Join in with Primary Swap Shop Pops Up, where primary teachers have an opportunity to pop their project, free resource or artefact onto a table top for discussion and networking/swapping ideas etc, with other primary educators.

If you have something that you would like to share with conference delegates, please contact Sheetal Kowalczyk by email at s.kowalczyk@bro.gdst.net . Spaces are limited!

Contributions should be no larger than 40cm x 80cm - and fit on a table top
Whatever you show, should take no longer than 5-10 minutes to arrange on the table
Contributions should be inspiring and thought provoking, something that teachers may not have seen before
Ideas should be tried and tested - so that teachers can feel assured that they can replicate your idea back at their school.

If you have had an article published about your idea in Primary Science Magazine or another journal, please have a copy of that on the table alongside our display, so that teachers can read more about it. If you are happy for teachers to contact you, please feel free to leave your card or material on your table for teachers to take away.
Everything shared in the Primary Swap Shop is free of charge and without agenda, that creates the special friendly atmosphere of the pop-up!

Speakers

Sheetal Kowalczyk

Primary Teacher, Bromley High Junior School

Friday January 10, 2025 14:15 - 15:05 GMT
Pope LT C15

Primary

Theme Professional Journeys
Key Stage / Audience Type 0-4, 5 to 7, 7 to 11
Twitter feed @theASE

14:15 GMT

Technicians: Making spirit burners (TBC)

Friday January 10, 2025 14:15 - 15:05 GMT

Chemistry Lab C10 B

Speakers

Tracy Sherwood-Farnfield RSciTech

Lead Science Technician, The School of Science and Technology (prep room)

Friday January 10, 2025 14:15 - 15:05 GMT
Chemistry Lab C10 B

Technicians

Theme Practical Work
Key Stage / Audience Type Technicians

14:15 GMT

Technicians: Practical Adaptations for SEND

Friday January 10, 2025 14:15 - 15:05 GMT

Chemistry Lab C10 A

This session looks at ways to adapt practicals and resources to make them accessible to all learners. There will be a chance to try some of them out for yourself.

Speakers

Fiona Roberts RSciTech

Senior Science Technician / Chair of ASE Technicians Committee, Bolton School

Friday January 10, 2025 14:15 - 15:05 GMT
Chemistry Lab C10 A

Technicians

Theme Practical Work
Key Stage / Audience Type Technicians

14:15 GMT

Talking Science: Time for a change? Science education reform

Friday January 10, 2025 14:15 - 16:45 GMT

Chemistry LT X2 (with sink)

Following short stimulus inputs from our speakers, delegates will discuss and prioritise their top issues for reform.
In common with our previous Talking Science sessions, these sessions promise thought-provoking insights and lively debate. We look forward to seeing you there and your contributions. Refreshments are provided courtesy of SEPA.

The Science Education Policy Alliance (SEPA) brings together the Association for Science Education, Institute of Physics, Royal Society, Royal Society of Biology and Royal Society of Chemistry to coordinate and collaborate on science education policy, with Professor Dame Athene Donald as Chair.

Speakers

Marianne Cutler

Director, Policy and Curriculum Innovation, ASE

Marianne has overall responsibility for curriculum support and projects at the ASE. She works closely with ASE committees and manages professional development projects.

Friday January 10, 2025 14:15 - 16:45 GMT
Chemistry LT X2 (with sink)

All

15:45 GMT

Scientists can look like me: challenging stereotypes in primary science

Friday January 10, 2025 15:45 - 16:00 GMT

ESLC C01

Terri and the Time Machine is a year-long primary science project, delivering the science curriculum through an interactive arts-based approach. Join some of our teachers who are delivering the project as they share their experiences of how it has challenged their children’s perceptions of science through creative exploration, story-telling and a whole lot of magic!

Arts- based techniques have shown to particularly support diverse learners and play a role in helping children in achieving aspirations, particularly those pupils experiencing systemic inequality and barriers to learning. Throughout the project, we wanted to challenge the children’s perceptions of ‘what’ and ‘who’ a scientist is, allowing them to begin to see themselves as scientists and see that science is and can be part of their worlds.

From geologists to sports nutritionists, at regular points during the project the children have the opportunity to hear from and speak to STEM ambassadors – through virtual Q&A sessions and recorded interviews – the children have chance to find out about ‘real life’ scientists and how the things they are learning in the classroom are applied in the outside world.

Speakers

Hannah Jeffares

Creative Schools Project Coordinator, Z-arts

Hi, I'm an experienced primary school teacher with experience teaching both in mainstream and alternative democratic settings. I am currently coordinating an innovative project - Terri and the Time Machine - delivering the primary science curriculum using an arts-based approach. The... Read More →

Sarah Punshon

Artistic Director, One Tenth Human

Friday January 10, 2025 15:45 - 16:00 GMT
ESLC C01

Primary

Theme Inclusion and Diversity including SEND
Key Stage / Audience Type ECTs, Global, Industry, Teacher Developers, 7 to 11
Twitter feed @z-arts_schools; @OneTenthHuman

15:45 GMT

Bringing Biology To Life

Friday January 10, 2025 15:45 - 16:35 GMT

Chemistry lab B5

Looking to infuse biology with excitement and innovation? The workshop offers attendees the opportunity to immerse themselves in hands-on demonstrations and training in cutting-edge biology techniques.

Participants will gain insights into optimising microscope usage through proper setup and maintenance protocols and delve into the exploration of the newest range of microscopes and slides.

Moreover, they’ll participate in their own Moss Safari, and experience an innovative approach to teaching photosynthesis with the innovative PASCO Photosynthesis Chamber that leverages fully controllable conditions for photosynthesis experiments.

Attendees can anticipate leaving the workshop equipped not only with enhanced technical skills but also with a deeper understanding of how to transform conventional biology lessons into dynamic and interactive learning experiences.

Speakers

Silas Norman

Product Manager, VITTA Group

Wendy Ford

VITTA Group Brand Manager, VITTA Education

Sponsors

VITTA Education

Friday January 10, 2025 15:45 - 16:35 GMT
Chemistry lab B5

11-19

Theme Practical Work
Key Stage / Audience Type ECTs, 11-14, 14-16, Technicians
Twitter feed @VITTAEducation

15:45 GMT

CLEAPSS Hands-on Workshop drop-in

Friday January 10, 2025 15:45 - 16:35 GMT

ESLC A09 A

A chance to gets hands-on making equipment and carrying out the latest CLEAPSS practicals

Speakers

Matt Endean

Deputy Director, CLEAPSS

Friday January 10, 2025 15:45 - 16:35 GMT
ESLC A09 A

11-19

Theme Practical Work
Key Stage / Audience Type 11-14, 14-16, Post-16, Technicians
Twitter feed @CLEAPSS

15:45 GMT

Evidence-based climate change teaching materials

Friday January 10, 2025 15:45 - 16:35 GMT

ESLC B05

The session aims to support secondary school science teachers in the delivery of climate change education through evidence-based teaching materials. The climate change teaching materials were developed through a rigorous and robust scientific process based on the latest climate change evidence.

Every day, a vast quantity of research on climate change is produced. However, the majority of this research is directed primarily towards academic and scientific audiences, leaving a gap in its accessibility to the general public and, crucially, teachers. The specialised focus of current approaches means that the dissemination of climate change research, especially within the social sciences, is as rapid as needed; however, it does not succeed in enabling wider communities to gain an understanding, thus negatively impacting climate action.

Compounding the problem, there exists misinformation or ‘fake evidence’ about climate change that further prevents public understanding. The vast body of rigorous climate change research, combined with its complexity, means that this globally significant topic can be challenging to understand and decipher for those outside the scientific community.

It is imperative that all teachers are informed and kept up to date with the latest verified evidence on climate change to ensure that future generations are equipped with accurate knowledge and are empowered to act. To assist secondary school science teachers in teaching climate change, a set of evidence-based materials was created, incorporating the most recent evidence on climate change.

Speakers

Indira Banner

Lecturer in science education, Leeds University

Syafiq Mat Noor

Lecturer in Climate Change Education, University of Leeds

Friday January 10, 2025 15:45 - 16:35 GMT
ESLC B05

11-19

Theme Sustainability climate change & environmental issues
Key Stage / Audience Type ECTs, Global, Industry, Teacher Developers, 11-14
Twitter feed @syafiq_man

15:45 GMT

Improving representation careers and STEM identity - OCR's free resources

Friday January 10, 2025 15:45 - 16:35 GMT

Pope A34

The OCR Science team will outline recent progress we have made in helping teachers to improve representation in the science classroom. We'll look at how teachers can help their students to their develop STEM identity. We will highlight our resources to help teachers to meet the Gatsby Careers benchmarks.

Speakers

Andri Achilleos

Subject Advisor- Science, OCR

Andri Achilleos was a teacher for ten years before joining OCR in January 2019 as the subject advisor for A Level Biology. She studied Biology at University of Bristol and completed an MA in Science Education at University of York. She has taught in Birmingham as Teacher in charge... Read More →

Ally Davies

Subject Advisor for Science, OCR

After teaching physics and science - and leading departments - for over 20 years, I provided and managed professional support for teachers at Isaac Physics and for the Institute of Physics. I've been a Subject Advisor at OCR since November 2021. I'm committed to making science education... Read More →

Sponsors

OCR

Friday January 10, 2025 15:45 - 16:35 GMT
Pope A34

11-19

Theme Inclusion and Diversity including SEND
Key Stage / Audience Type ECTs, Teacher Developers, 11-14, 14-16
Twitter feed @OCR_science

15:45 GMT

No physics teachers! Who cares? We do..

Friday January 10, 2025 15:45 - 16:35 GMT

ESLC B01

Stories, observations, opportunities and insights from the physics coaching community.

Under a rock you would have been to have remained unaware of physics teacher recruitment and retention problems in UK schools.

This session draws together voices from the physics coaching community, a long running pool of expertise trickle funded by DfE and centrally organised over the years by IoP & more recently STEM learning.

We will celebrate the amazing work being done by teachers of physics both in and out of specialism. Reflect on the power of networks. Share lessons leant by the coaching community... and, perhaps most importantly, give you as many brilliant physics engagement ideas, quick wins, and unforgettable demonstrations as we can pack into this session.

Speakers

Henry Hammond

Stimulating Physics Network (SPN) Lead, Stimulating Physics Network (SPN)

Kerry Colyer

Stimulating Physics Network (SPN) lead, Stimulating Physics Network (SPN)

Friday January 10, 2025 15:45 - 16:35 GMT
ESLC B01

11-19

Theme Professional Journeys
Key Stage / Audience Type ECTs, Global, Industry, Teacher Developers, 11-14, 14-16, Post-16
Twitter feed @science_aps

15:45 GMT

SAPS: Biology practicals that work drop-in session

Friday January 10, 2025 15:45 - 16:35 GMT

ESLC A09 B

Speakers

Alex Jenkin

Project Manager, Science and Plants for Schools (SAPS)

Dan Jenkins

Head of Gatsby Plant Education Programme, Science and Plants for Schools (SAPS)

Gail Webdell

Science Technician, SAPS

Friday January 10, 2025 15:45 - 16:35 GMT
ESLC A09 B

11-19

Theme Practical Work
Key Stage / Audience Type 11-14, 14-16, Post-16, Advisors/Consultants, Trainees, Technicians

15:45 GMT

Science curriculum design and implementation for inclusion

Friday January 10, 2025 15:45 - 16:35 GMT

Coates C22

This session looks at how thoughtful curriculum planning and development using cognitive science can ensure accessibility and attainment for all learners.

Speakers

Natalie Johnston

Trust Wide Subject Lead (Science), David Ross Education Trust

Emma Swift

Deputy Headteacher, Alvaston Moor Academy

Friday January 10, 2025 15:45 - 16:35 GMT
Coates C22

11-19

Theme Inclusion and Diversity including SEND
Key Stage / Audience Type ECTs, Global, Selected by Teacher Developers' Group, Teacher Developers, 11-14, 14-16
Twitter feed @Johnston_Nat_; @emmaswift

15:45 GMT

Effective approaches to climate education within the classroom and beyond

Friday January 10, 2025 15:45 - 16:35 GMT

Physics C30

Effective science education needs to reach beyond the classroom – climate and ecological education is vital knowledge that is essential in the real world and can unite entire school communities. Current approaches to climate education fall short of equipping our pupils with the skills they need for their futures, leaving them helpless and hopeless in the face of the climate crisis.

In this interactive session, SOS-UK and Teach the Teacher young people will share solutions to this issue, explore intergenerational approaches, curriculum tracked changes, and ideas into how we facilitate two-way learning between students and teachers, school staff, and even how that knowledge is shared with families back at home too. Breaking climate education out of its silo empowers our young people to make real change, while feeling supported by the educators around them.

Speakers

Amy Padfield

Senior Project Manager - Education, Students Organising for Sustainability UK

Friday January 10, 2025 15:45 - 16:35 GMT
Physics C30

All

Theme Sustainability climate change & environmental issues
Key Stage / Audience Type ECTs, Global, Industry, Teacher Developers, 7 to 11, 11-14, 14-16, ITEs, Advisors/Consultants, Trainees
Twitter feed @tteacheruk; @sosukcharity

15:45 GMT

Developing a critically reflective approach to subject leadership

Friday January 10, 2025 15:45 - 16:35 GMT

Pope A1

Through the eyes of Science Across the City (SATC) and the Primary Science Quality Mark (PSQM), this session looks at the importance of fostering a critically reflective approach to subject leadership and promoting a commitment to continuous growth.

Speakers

Helen Sizer

Deputy Director, Primary Science Quality Mark

Christina Whittaker

Co-lead Science Across The City Project, Science Across the City

Building Capacity in the primary science landscape, Working collaboratively, Systems leadership, School improvement, School self review ( & Deep Dives), nurturing leaders & outreach

Friday January 10, 2025 15:45 - 16:35 GMT
Pope A1

Primary

Theme Professional Journeys
Key Stage / Audience Type ECTs, 5 to 7, 7 to 11, Global, Teacher Developers, Selected by Teacher Developers' Group

15:45 GMT

Flux and stability

Friday January 10, 2025 15:45 - 16:35 GMT

ESLC B04

How do children’s career aspirations change over time? We know quite a lot about what types of jobs children want to do, but less about how an individual child’s aspirations change over time. This session will present research on the changes in individual children’s career aspirations between 2019 and 2021. We will also discuss the implications of the research for teachers, primary schools and organisations interested in encouraging children to do STEM careers when they are older.

Speakers

Carol Davenport

Director, NUSTEM, Northumbria University

Carol is an Associate Professor and Director of NUSTEM at Northumbria University.Carol began working in education at Barnsley College as a Physics lecturer, and later taught at a large North East school. Moving into teacher education, she worked within the network of Science Learning... Read More →

Friday January 10, 2025 15:45 - 16:35 GMT
ESLC B04

Primary

Theme Research
Key Stage / Audience Type Selected by Research Group, ECTs, Industry, Teacher Developers, 5 to 7, 7 to 11
Twitter feed @DrDav; @nustem_uk

15:45 GMT

Recognising and teaching the different science enquiry types

Friday January 10, 2025 15:45 - 16:35 GMT

ESLC B07

Enquiry types are an important part of the disciplinary knowledge in the primary science curriculum (England). This session, presented by the authors of the new edition of the book ‘It’s not fair – or is it?’, will use the latest thinking on this aspect of science education to help you to:

•distinguish between the science enquiry types, considering where confusion may arise
•identify which is the most useful enquiry type for particular contexts and questions
•plan for progression in teaching children how to carry out science enquiries from the early years through to upper key stage 2

This session is related to the ASE/Millgate book It's not fair - or is it?

Speakers

Jane Turner CSciTeach

Associate Professor for Enterprise and Entrepreneurship, Primary Science Quality Mark (University of Hertfordshire)

Associate Professor Jane Turner BA (Hons), PGCE, MEd, CsciTeachJane taught in primary schools in Hertfordshire and London. She is the director of the Primary Science Quality Mark, based at the University of Hertfordshire. Jane has written and contributed to several primary and early... Read More →

David Allen

Associate Professor Learning and Teaching / Chair Elect for the ASE 24-25, University of Hertfordshire & Creative Primary Science Education Consultancy

Liz Lawrence

Primary Science Education Consultant, Independent Consultant

I am a PSQM Senior Regional Hub Leader, Chartered Science Teacher, writer and resource developer (including It’s not fair - or is it? and PLAN resources). I have been involved in development of curriculum and assessment at national level. I was, at various times, a science subject... Read More →

Friday January 10, 2025 15:45 - 16:35 GMT
ESLC B07

Primary

Theme Practical Work
Key Stage / Audience Type 7 to 11, ECTs, 0-4, 5 to 7, Trainees

15:45 GMT

Teaching KS2 pupils about the nature of science: an oracy-based approach

Friday January 10, 2025 15:45 - 16:35 GMT

Pope LT C17

Rationale:
This workshop addresses two important themes in primary science education:
•the effective application of oracy to the teaching and learning of science;
•the need to teach conceptual disciplinary knowledge (to develop an understanding of what science is and how the scientific community works) more effectively.

The materials to be shared are being developed as part of a project funded by the PHG Foundation and led by Professor Rupert Wegerif at Hughes Hall, Cambridge. They build on the legacy of the Thinking Together project which set out to enable pupils to make better use of spoken language to think well, both socially and individually. It is hoped that teaching pupils to think well about the nature of science and the scientific community will enhance their appreciation of science as a way of knowing about the world, make the subject more relevant and meaningful to them (build their science capital), and support them to better understand and evaluate information they are exposed to online. We also hope that engagement with the materials will support pupils to feel more ‘present’ and valued as co-constructors of their own understanding of science.

Outcomes:
Each participant will be given a set of materials developed as part of the project.
The session will enable participants to:
•use a set of detailed lesson plans and accompanying resources to teach pupils how to talk and think effectively in small groups and as a whole class (with benefits that extend beyond science lessons!)
•use the materials to explore key ideas about the nature of science and the scientific community with their pupils, mainly through the medium of talk;
•engage students in dialogues that connect the science curriculum to their lived experience, building their science capital;
•develop their own confidence to teach conceptual disciplinary knowledge;
•more confidently facilitate classroom dialogue so that pupils are more actively engaged in co-constructing their own understanding.

Session details:
Participants will be given an overview of the project materials and the opportunity to engage in a number of the activities. There will be time to reflect on the value of the materials and different models for their integration into the science curriculum. These discussions will be informed by feedback from rigorous in-school evaluation. The presenters will draw on their extensive experience of oracy-based pedagogy to model and discuss the effective use of the materials (Neil Phillipson is a SAPERE P4C trainer, an associate of Oracy Cambridge, and an author on dialogic education, as well as being an experienced Primary Science Quality Mark hub leader. A practicing teacher from our teacher-evaluation team, will also attend).

Speakers

Neil Phillipson

PSQM Hub Leader, dialogic education / oracy trainer, Representing Hughes Hall, Cambridge

Friday January 10, 2025 15:45 - 16:35 GMT
Pope LT C17

Primary

Theme Curriculum and New Teaching Approaches
Key Stage / Audience Type ECTs, Global, Teacher Developers, 7 to 11
Twitter feed @Phillipson70

15:45 GMT

The professional journey of two ECT's: from action research to practice.

Friday January 10, 2025 15:45 - 16:35 GMT

Pope LT C15

Megan and Amy will discuss the action research process before delving deeper into their studies. Themes and outcomes will shared from recent research including suggested activities for best practice.

Megan will be discussing topics on retrieval practice in KS1 science reflecting on the use of dual coding, peer communication and feedback-driven metacognition and their impact on cognitive load.
Amy will be discussing how forest school approaches including risk-taking can impact upon children's resilience and overlapping mental capacities in KS1.

The process of action research will be reflected upon and how this has influenced and impacted practice for Early Carer Teachers.

Speakers

Megan Fox

Year 1 Primary school Teacher

Amy Barber

Year 3 Primary school teacher

Friday January 10, 2025 15:45 - 16:35 GMT
Pope LT C15

Primary

Theme Professional Journeys
Key Stage / Audience Type 5 to 7, 7 to 11, ECTs, Global, Industry, Teacher Developers

15:45 GMT

Technicians: Everything to do with circuits

Friday January 10, 2025 15:45 - 16:35 GMT

Physics lab

In this session we will get the most out of your electronics kit, focussing on motors, LEDs, LDRs, thermistors & capacitors.

Speakers

Andrew Jones RSciTech MInstP

Senior Science Technician and ASE National Committee: Laboratory Technicians, Norwich High School

Friday January 10, 2025 15:45 - 16:35 GMT
Physics lab

Technicians

Theme Practical Work
Key Stage / Audience Type Technicians

15:45 GMT

Technicians: Microscale favourites

Friday January 10, 2025 15:45 - 16:35 GMT

Chemistry Lab C10 B

A hands-on session that will showcase some KS3 and KS4 microscale practical favourites including food tests, electrolysis and testing for ions. Delegates will learn about the vast multitude of benefits that are felt by staff and students when taking this approach to practical work.

Speakers

Rebecca Daniels

Science Technician, St Peter's CofE Academy

Friday January 10, 2025 15:45 - 16:35 GMT
Chemistry Lab C10 B

Technicians

Theme Practical Work
Key Stage / Audience Type Technicians

15:45 GMT

Technicians: New technicians (TBC)

Friday January 10, 2025 15:45 - 16:35 GMT

Chemistry Lab C10 A

Speakers

Jeanette Dyer

Science Technician, Melbourn Village College

Friday January 10, 2025 15:45 - 16:35 GMT
Chemistry Lab C10 A

Technicians

Theme Practical Work
Key Stage / Audience Type Technicians

16:45 GMT

Meet and Greet the 11-19 Committee

Friday January 10, 2025 16:45 - 17:30 GMT

Pope A1

If you are a secondary teacher or science education consultant, come along to the "Meet the 11 to 19 Committee" session at the end of Friday of Annual Conference 2025.

Got a question? Ever wondered about what goes on behind the scenes? Ever thought about getting involved in Committee activities? Are you wanting to know more about Professional Registration or writing an article for one of the ASE journals?

We look forward to listening to your questions and will endeavour to answer them!

Speakers

Wendy Pearmain

Chair of 11-19 Committee, ASE

Friday January 10, 2025 16:45 - 17:30 GMT
Pope A1

11-19

Theme Professional Journeys
Key Stage / Audience Type 11-14, 14-16, Post-16, ITEs, Advisors/Consultants
Twitter feed @theASE

16:45 GMT

Meet and Greet the ASE Primary Committee

Friday January 10, 2025 16:45 - 17:30 GMT

ESLC B04

If you are a primary science educator, come along to the "Meet the Primary Committee" session at the end of Friday of Annual Conference 2024.

Got a question? Ever wondered about what goes on behind the scenes? Ever thought about getting involved in Committee activities? Are you wanting to know more about Professional Registration or writing an article in Primary Science or one of the ASE journals?

We look forward to listening to your questions and will endeavour to answer them!

Speakers

Angharad Pass

Primary Science Specialist Education Consultant

Friday January 10, 2025 16:45 - 17:30 GMT
ESLC B04

Primary

Theme Professional Journeys
Key Stage / Audience Type 0-4, 5 to 7, 7 to 11

16:45 GMT

Meet and Greet the ASE Technicians Committee

Friday January 10, 2025 16:45 - 17:30 GMT

Chemistry Building Foyer

If you are a science technician, come along to the "Meet the Technicians Committee" session at the end of Friday of Annual Conference 2025.

Got a question? Ever wondered about what goes on behind the scenes? Ever thought about getting involved in Committee activities? Are you wanting to know more about Professional Registration or writing an article for one of the ASE journals?

We look forward to listening to your questions and will endeavour to answer them!

Friday January 10, 2025 16:45 - 17:30 GMT
Chemistry Building Foyer

Technicians

Theme Professional Journeys
Key Stage / Audience Type Technicians
Twitter feed @theASE

16:45 GMT

CLEAPSS Primary Ambassadors Launch Event - by CLEAPSS' invitation only

Friday January 10, 2025 16:45 - 17:45 GMT

ESLC Level 2 Balcony above main door

This invitation only reception has been arranged by CLEAPSS and is an opportunity to launch their Primary Ambassadors' work moving forward.

Speakers

Steve Jones

Director, CLEAPSS

Steve taught science in secondary schools for 28 years before moving into advisory work, initially for Hertfordshire and then as a regional adviser for the Secondary National Strategy - Always passionate about practical work Steve believes that hands-on activities are quite simply... Read More →

Matt Endean

Deputy Director, CLEAPSS

Jason Harding

Primary Section Leader, CLEAPSS

Friday January 10, 2025 16:45 - 17:45 GMT
ESLC Level 2 Balcony above main door

Primary

Theme Professional Journeys
Key Stage / Audience Type 0-4, 5 to 7, 7 to 11
Twitter feed @CLEAPSS_Primary

19:00 GMT

Friday's Social: Curry and Quiz night with PAYG Bar!

Friday January 10, 2025 19:00 - 22:00 GMT

Trent Building

Come along to ASE's Friday Curry and quiz night Social from 19:00 (ticket entry only on Eventbrite) for a great evening of fun with good food and company. There will be a pay as you go bar too, with a lovely relaxed atmosphere for everyone to meet up with colleagues, talk about the day and plan for Saturday at Annual Conference 2025. Book early as numbers are limited.

If you are attending on your own, don't be put off! We have a really friendly community of people to welcome you to the evening and ensure you are in good company - just let us know if you are going solo - you won't be for long!

Speakers

All