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ASE 2025 Annual Conference
Attending this event?
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!
 

5 to 7 clear filter
Thursday, January 9
 

08:45 GMT

Behind the AI curtain: How CENTURY use ML to accelerate learning
Thursday January 9, 2025 08:45 - 09:35 GMT
Educators are invited to attend a captivating and insightful talk that explores the sophisticated mechanisms of CENTURY’s AI capabilities, driven by cutting-edge algorithms and informed by the latest research in machine learning.

Understand how CENTURY’s AI uses vast datasets to gain deep insights into each student’s learning journey, by identifying patterns in performance, preferences and challenges.

The talk offers educators valuable insights into how CENTURY is using machine learning to transform education. Attendees will discover how the platform reduces teacher workload by dynamically adjusting recommendations to cater to the individual needs of every learner, enhancing engagement, comprehension and achievement.
Don’t miss the opportunity to see how CENTURY has been the driving force over the last nine years in the use of artificial intelligence to revolutionise education.
Speakers
Thursday January 9, 2025 08:45 - 09:35 GMT
ESLC C01

08:45 GMT

Engaging under-represented young people in STEM
Thursday January 9, 2025 08:45 - 09:35 GMT
In 2023/24 the British Science Association were tasked by UKRI to 'convene' the sector around the topic of 'engaging underrepresented young people in STEM'. Over the course of the year we ran focus groups, discussion sessions and round tables on the topic, including listening to the lived experiences of young people and teachers.

This session will look at the recommendations from the last round table, and will include a panel discussion, with contributors from the STEM engagement community as well as academia and schools.
Speakers
MR

Maria Rossini

Head of Education, British Science Association
Thursday January 9, 2025 08:45 - 09:35 GMT
Pope LT C17

08:45 GMT

Developing our understanding of enquiry types
Thursday January 9, 2025 08:45 - 09:35 GMT
Participants in this session will consider and discuss how they develop teachers' understanding of enquiry types, stimulated by the publication of a new edition of ‘It’s not fair – or is it?’ The authors of the new edition have considered questions such as:

•What are enquiry types?
•How useful are they?
•How have our definitions of them evolved since the publication of the National Curriculum (England) and the first edition of It's not fair?
•What do teachers and children need to know about them?
•Common misconceptions when teaching and learning about the enquiry types

They invite participants to join the conversation and consider the implications this has for their practice.

This session is related to the book It's not fair - or is it? which can be purchased from the ASE/Millgate bookshop.
Speakers
avatar for Liz Lawrence

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 →
avatar for Alex Sinclair

Alex Sinclair

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

Lucy J Wood

Lecturer in Chemistry Education, Kings College London
I am a Lecturer in Chemistry Education at King’s College London with a research focus on practical work across primary and secondary settings. I have a passion for bringing scientific enquiry into the curriculum and have been closely involved in supporting professional development... Read More →
Thursday January 9, 2025 08:45 - 09:35 GMT
Pope LT C15

08:45 GMT

Our Place on Earth: Raising the voice and agency of young children
Thursday January 9, 2025 08:45 - 09:35 GMT
Our Place on Earth is a Wonderseekers (the charity behind Winchester Science Centre & Planetarium) programme, with objectives to build partnerships to broaden our organisational expertise and credibility, expand and diversify our science engagement work to engage children with the natural sciences and local natural heritage, develop essential science enquiry skills and build awareness of local conservation.  These objectives will be achieved by developing engaging, inclusive learning experiences and resources, on-site and in communities, to create equitable opportunities for children, especially those from underserved communities. Further, the output of this programme is to facilitate children's voice and be a better learning organisation, by developing equitable co-working practices with children, scientists and other practitioners. This will allow us to deliver a relevant, relatable project and inform future developments and social change.

This session will discuss the findings from the development phase of the programme, highlighting the activities undertaken, the lessons learned from those sessions, including how we have worked with an artist and scientists in developing the activities for children. The findings from our study into the voices and concerns of children about the environment, will be shared with the audience, as well as an outline of how we have made the activities accessible to a diverse range of needs. The focus of this session will be on accessibility and how to provide opportunities to capture children’s voice and provide them with a sense of agency about the environment, tackling climate change and biodiversity loss. We feel that it is important to highlight to children that climate change is on their doorstep and is something they can tangibly get involved with - creating a network of opportunities within the local community (e.g. citizen science, experience days with researchers and in-house school trip activities). The programme also entails the design of an exhibition space that will function as an accessible learning space too.

Attendants of the sessions will be able to engage with some of the activities that were carried out during the development phase of the programme, including learning about soil, sound in nature, light pollution, sustainable farming and the conservation of endangered species. Following a short presentation and activity period, there will be time dedicated to Q&A to discuss matters such as SEND provision, what accessibility means to you and us, how strive to provide as equitable an experience as possible and what we are doing to open the floor to children’s voice.
Speakers
NM

Nikhil Mistry

Head of Curiosity, Winchester Science Centre by Wonderseekers
EH

Emiley Hinton

Project Officer (Our Place on Earth), Wonderseekers
Thursday January 9, 2025 08:45 - 09:35 GMT
Pope A17

09:45 GMT

Enabling change through the assessment of thinking scientifically
Thursday January 9, 2025 09:45 - 10:35 GMT
In an era of diminishing teacher autonomy (OECD 2016; Worth and Van den Brande 2020), many teachers find they are unable to enact change in their practice. In our presentation, we will model some professional learning experiences that we believe can empower teachers to refine their practice.

Our session has two aims. There is a growing body of professional resources that seeks to support children to think scientifically. Firstly, we will model how to introduce a professional resource through an analysis of children's work as illustrations of aspects of Dr. Murphy's Thinking Scientifically Matrix. This matrix articulates a progression in children's thinking in primary science.
Secondly, building on Dr. Serret’s research expertise in enabling pedagogical transformation, we will share some effective approaches that help to communicate evidence-informed pedagogy across a community of practitioners.

Through this, our presentation considers how to introduce pedagogical initiatives (e.g. A Thinking Scientifically Matrix) that allows teachers to integrate this within their existing practice but also encourages them to make small, significant shifts in how they assess, teach and plan in primary science.

In this session you will:
•Have the opportunity to engage in first-hand experiences of applying a pedagogical tool (thinking scientifically matrix) to children’s work.
•Identify how teachers might adapt their planning and teaching when integrating new pedagogy within their existing practice.
•Think about the potential that different professional learning experiences can offer in enabling teachers to enact change in their practice.
Speakers
AM

Alison Murphy

Senior Lecturer, Nottingham Trent University
NS

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
Thursday January 9, 2025 09:45 - 10:35 GMT
Pope A17

09:45 GMT

The joy of practical primary science - more ideas
Thursday January 9, 2025 09:45 - 10:35 GMT
Using surprising science to aid discussion and experimentation supports scientific thinking.  In this practical workshop participants carry out activities which seem surprising.  We will discuss how they work and how to use them in the classroom. Most of the activities will use materials easy to source so they are straightforward to replicate in the classroom.
Speakers
avatar for Sarah Sisson

Sarah Sisson

Workshop leader, Sphere Science
Practical activities to do in classrooms, at school events and with families.
MP

Meg Post

Workshop leader, Sphere Science
I am interested in supporting the personal development of scientific thinking in people of all ages, especially through investigative science and practical demonstration. My background, originally in manuscript conservation, is in teaching at all levels, currently especially primary... Read More →
Thursday January 9, 2025 09:45 - 10:35 GMT
Coates C22
  Primary

09:45 GMT

Using iPads to enhance Science teaching
Thursday January 9, 2025 09:45 - 10:35 GMT
Do you have sets of iPads that you are not sure how to include in your science lessons?  Do you want to find out how technology can be used to enhance teaching and learning?  We will show you some practical ways that you can use iPads within your science teaching.  This session will leave you with ideas to use next week in your classroom.
Speakers
avatar for Tanya White

Tanya White

Associate Headteacher, Transform Trust
Associate Headteacher: Science Lead for the Transform Trust (MAT with 21 primary schools in Nottingham and Derby)
PH

Phil Herd

Associate Headteacher, Transform Trust
Thursday January 9, 2025 09:45 - 10:35 GMT
Chemistry lab B5

11:15 GMT

Scientist's Story Time - Unlocking Rich Contexts in Children's Literature
Thursday January 9, 2025 11:15 - 12:05 GMT
Rich contexts, taken from children’s literature, can be used to give pupils a purpose for scientific learning. Stories promote emotive responses - leading to children being more invested in their learning. By using drama conventions, children become real scientists; help well-known characters and understand the breadth of STEM careers available. In a post-lockdown world, this re-builds resilience, problem-solving, collaboration and metacognition.

In Ted Hughes’ The Iron Man, local farmers are outraged by a giant metal man destroying their livelihoods and are desperate for help. As electrical engineers, can pupils learn the substantive and disciplinary knowledge required to stop him in his tracks?

Delegates will step in to fictional contexts and solve problems as working scientists. During the workshop, they will learn how to carefully select age-appropriate texts for purpose and build a progressive sequence of substantive and disciplinary knowledge for a range of topics across the primary science curriculum. There will also be opportunities to consider wider, meaningful curriculum links and outdoor learning opportunities.
Speakers
avatar for Rebecca Riley

Rebecca Riley

PSTT Fellow, Assistant Headteacher, Curriculum Lead, Enhance Academy Trust
JH

Joshua Hammond

Enhance Academy Trust, Class Teacher, Maths and computing lead, Enhance Academy Trust
Thursday January 9, 2025 11:15 - 12:05 GMT
Coates C22

11:15 GMT

Using CLEAPSS Primary activities to support learning
Thursday January 9, 2025 11:15 - 12:05 GMT
“I now understand that planning a practical lesson is nothing like planning an English lesson”. This revelatory quote comes from a Science Ninja Leader on our Science Ninja’s research project. Observing practical lessons, looking at pupil work and talking to teachers has shed light on many practical activities where the teachers recognised that their practical lessons did not support their intended learning. During this session we will share examples of pupil outcomes from some of these lessons.

Finding out what the teachers wanted from the activities and working with them to plan better lessons has provided us with a deep understanding of the kinds of support primary teachers need. In juxtaposition to the poor pupil outcomes shared, we will showcase activities we’ve since produced; explaining how we’ve incorporated the knowledge gained, through our research, so that they support teachers, in the ways we now know they need, to plan effective hands-on learning experiences.
Speakers
JH

Jason Harding

Primary Section Leader, CLEAPSS
avatar for Maria Pack

Maria Pack

Primary Science Consultant, CLEAPSS
avatar for Sally Fulford

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.
Thursday January 9, 2025 11:15 - 12:05 GMT
Pope A17
  Primary

12:15 GMT

Honorary and Professional Members lunch
Thursday January 9, 2025 12:15 - 13:05 GMT
This lunch (by invitation only) is for those Honorary ASE members and science teachers and technicians who have gained professional registration or Chartership: CSciTeach, RSci or RSciTech, all of whom are invited to join Lynn Ladbrook, the ASE's CEO.
Speakers
avatar for Lynn Ladbrook

Lynn Ladbrook

Chief Executive, Association for Science Education
avatar for Jane Oldham

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 →
avatar for Chris Harrison

Chris Harrison

Professor of Science Education, King’s College London
Researcher keen to work at classroom level. Teacher educator. Research interest: Assessment and especially Assessment for Learning. Inquiry in science/experimental science. Professional Learning and practice-based evidence. Big, big ASE enthusiast!!
Thursday January 9, 2025 12:15 - 13:05 GMT
Chemistry Building Foyer
  All

12:15 GMT

Panel: How does research influence initial teacher education?
Thursday January 9, 2025 12:15 - 13:05 GMT
In England, the government framework for initial teacher education is based on educational research from around the world. In this session we will explore:
  • how the research identified in the framework influences initial teacher education
  • what other research influences initial teacher education, positively and negatively
  • what research we would like to see carried out about initial teacher education

ASE Teacher Developers Committee and Research Committee will jointly curate and host this session.

Speakers
avatar for Emily Perry

Emily Perry

Professor of Education, Sheffield Hallam Institute of Education
avatar for Claire Seeley MA CSciTeach

Claire Seeley MA CSciTeach

Primary Science Education Consultant
Thursday January 9, 2025 12:15 - 13:05 GMT
Pope LT C15

12:15 GMT

Using British Science Week to Kick start engagement with STEM in your schoo
Thursday January 9, 2025 12:15 - 13:05 GMT
British Science Week happens every year in March in the UK. This session will look at top tips and support available for you to engage all young people in your school with STEM- with a focus on inclusion, and EDI. We will hear about funded opportunities and free resources as well as hear from teachers from the British Science Association's 'Engage' network on how they've used the week to kick-start STEM engagement in their schools, especially with children from more underrepresented backgrounds.
Speakers
avatar for Susan Matambanadzo

Susan Matambanadzo

Education Manager, British Science Association
Thursday January 9, 2025 12:15 - 13:05 GMT
ESLC B05

12:15 GMT

What is the nature of science? An exploration of its power and limitations
Thursday January 9, 2025 12:15 - 13:05 GMT
This workshop on the Nature of Science, given the ‘green tick’ on the ASE’s accreditation scheme addresses questions like ‘Why did I really go into teaching? What future do I want for my students? How can I help them get there?’   Cathy Priest passionately taught secondary school science for 20 years, her students excelled in their exams and loved science, but she rarely got a chance to think about these questions. She now works in teacher training at the Faraday Institute for Science and Religion, aiming to help busy teachers find ways to reach beyond day-to-day curriculum requirements, and inspire their students about the deeper, wider, and more wonderful reaches of science. She aims to equip teachers to help their students develop the scientific literacy to thrive in a world filled with complex, interdisciplinary questions and issues.

The workshop delves into topics including the underlying curiosity and creativity of the scientific endeavour, and aspects like the history and philosophy of science. Here’s why it is so exciting to help students better understand this and other aspects of the nature of science.

Young people today face many deep and important questions, such as those about identity and meaning; humanity’s response to issues like food security, the climate crisis and natural disasters; and the ethical considerations of different technological developments. Helping students to appreciate the nature and role of science including its power but also its limits and therefore the need for other perspectives to approach society’s big questions with wisdom, knowledge, curiosity and confidence is something that science teachers can do to help prepare young people for using their science well beyond the world of exams. This is helpful whether they are going to become brilliant scientists and thought-leaders, or simply citizens able to thrive in a complex, science and technology-filled society.

We do know however, that exams, syllabuses and inspections are important, so the workshop addresses the OFQUAL requirements ‘to appreciate the power and limitations of science; the ethical considerations which may arise from science; the everyday and technological applications of science; and the personal, social, economic and environmental implications of science”. Furthermore, an aspect of CPD identified by Ofsted in their recent science review: ‘Evidence suggests that CPD should align with the curriculum and include teachers learning about the nature of science and its methods. So, it supports teachers to help their students to develop scientific literacy, critical thinking and an understanding of how science can interact with other subjects to offer holistic solutions to world problems and big questions.

In summary, delegates will be supported in understanding that students come to their science lessons with different experiences and personal beliefs that should be considered when planning and delivering science lessons.  It enables them to explore through an interactive presentation, the power and limits of science to answer, 'Big Questions' and the value of other perspectives and it will also support science teachers in reviewing and considering strategies and resources which help students learn about the nature of science.
Speakers
avatar for Cathy Priest

Cathy Priest

Training Lead, The Faraday Institute for Science and Religion
I taught secondary school science for 20 years in the UK and abroad and led KS4, Biology and Physics departments.  I now work at the Faraday Institute for Science and Religion as the training lead in the youth and schools' team, developing and delivering CPD for in service and trainee... Read More →
Thursday January 9, 2025 12:15 - 13:05 GMT
Chemistry lab B5

13:15 GMT

Keynote: Schooling while home burns? The science teacher's role in educating for sustainability
Thursday January 9, 2025 13:15 - 14:05 GMT
The era of warning about impending ecological disasters has passed. These days we document them. Today’s thirteen-year-olds have already experienced the ten warmest years on record and each passing year will probably be hotter than the last. They are among a generation of young people living with the knowledge that this world, their home, is likely to become less habitable as they grow up. The implications of this for young people, for educators and for education itself are daunting. This is the backdrop to a seminar that will explore the question of how educators’ role(s) might adapt in response to this epoch that we have labelled the Anthropocene.

The seminar will draw on Paul’s research on student-led projects with schools across Europe and on educator competences as well as his role as a teacher educator and his recent work with the youth-led organisation Teach the Future. While making a case for the centrality of emotions in education (particularly in STEM subjects), Paul will consider some of the dangers and double binds inherent in educating about – and advocating for – sustainability in the current political climate. Although rooted in the policy context of England, his talk will highlight issues that are likely to arise in any democratic society with a publicly funded formal education system. If this all sounds rather ominous, rest assured, Paul is not a depressive type. He has always sought pragmatic ways of working with systemic or ‘wicked’ problems and recognises the human need for meaningful sources of hope.
Speakers
avatar for Paul Vare

Paul Vare

EdD Course Leader, School of Education and Science, University of Gloucestershire
Paul leads the Doctor of Education programme plus MA and BEd modules on learning and sustainability at the University of Gloucestershire. His research focuses on education for sustainable Development (ESD) and he was principle investigator of ‘A Rounder Sense of Purpose’, a six-year... Read More →
Thursday January 9, 2025 13:15 - 14:05 GMT
Pope LT C15

13:15 GMT

Reconceptualising the school curriculum to address global challenges
Thursday January 9, 2025 13:15 - 14:05 GMT
This session will introduce the ideas presented in Markwick and Reiss (2024). Reconceptualising the school curriculum to address global challenges: Marrying aims-based and ‘powerful knowledge’ approaches. Published in Curriculum Journal, BERA.

We argue that our science curriculum must be re-thought to consider how we prepare students for their futures in such uncertain times and that the ideas presented by Young's 'powerful knowledge' and Reiss and White's 'aims-based curriculum' should be integrated as they are complementary in such contexts.
Speakers
AM

Andy Markwick

Science lead and science specialist lead PGCE Primary, University College London
Thursday January 9, 2025 13:15 - 14:05 GMT
Pope A1

13:15 GMT

Engineering education in primary schools is going well when…
Thursday January 9, 2025 13:15 - 14:05 GMT
If you’re keen to identify the benefits and opportunities of taking an engineering-approach in your primary classroom, the Engineering in Primary School Stakeholder Group (EiPs) are the people to meet. A cross-sector group working to improve awareness and quality of provision through the mainstream and enrichment curriculum.

This is a one-stop shop for all you need to know about engineering education opportunities for 5-11 year olds.
Speakers
avatar for Lynne Bianchi

Lynne Bianchi

Professor / Director, SEERIH, University of Manchester
Vice Dean for Social Responsibility, Equality, Diversity, Inclusion & Accessibility Director of Science & Engineering Education Research and Innovation HubComino Foundation Associate  Great Science Share for Schools Campaign Director Principal Fellow of the HEA  RSA Fellow
DP

Dan Powell

Head of NEON, Engineering UK
Thursday January 9, 2025 13:15 - 14:05 GMT
Pope LT C17

13:15 GMT

How to develop exploratory talk
Thursday January 9, 2025 13:15 - 14:05 GMT
The session will give a brief overview of the Assessment Companion for Thinking Skills (ACTS) developed as part of a transnational Erasmus project. The main part of the workshop will be interactively using the Exploratory Talk Tool from this project and discussing how relevant this is to Science Teachers
Speakers
avatar for Alex Black

Alex Black

Owner, ABC-Learning
CASE materials https://community.letsthink.org.uk/
Thursday January 9, 2025 13:15 - 14:05 GMT
Coates C27

13:15 GMT

Science outside the primary classroom
Thursday January 9, 2025 13:15 - 14:05 GMT
Science outside the primary classroom: Supporting teacher trainees' skills in effective outdoor teaching and learning.

This project aimed to enhance the confidence, learning and teaching of students in ITT by understanding the benefits that outside learning opportunities provide schools and children. The research team analysed the responses of a confidence audit before/after a training intervention took place.

Working alongside Teach Outdoors Ltd, which aims to encourage educators to utilise their outside spaces and natural areas sustainably and effectively to teach the curriculum, we designed and piloted a blended training course for students working with school age children as part of their degree.

This gave students at Northampton University an opportunity to explore how an outdoor environment can be utilised to support child development and used as an active learning tool.

This session will allow delegates to explore the resources used and reflect on their own practice in teaching science outside the classroom.
Speakers
avatar for Helen Tiplady

Helen Tiplady

Senior Lecturer in Education, University of Northampton
Helen is a Senior Lecturer in the Initial Teacher Training team in the Faculty of Health, Education and Society and is currently the Module Leader for the science modules, lectures on the Research Practitioner module and has been the Module Leader in designing and delivering a brand... Read More →
avatar for Emma Whewell

Emma Whewell

Associate Professor of Learning and Teaching, University of Northampton
Emma is the Deputy Head of Subject for Sport and Exercise at the University of Northampton. There are seven undergraduate degrees on offer (Physical Education and Sport, Sports Coaching, Sport and Exercise Science, Sports Management and Leadership, Sports Rehabilitation and Conditioning... Read More →
Thursday January 9, 2025 13:15 - 14:05 GMT
Pope A17

14:15 GMT

Climate Literacy for everyone
Thursday January 9, 2025 14:15 - 15:05 GMT
Every student should leave school with the basic climate literacy that enables them to engage with the media, make informed decisions about their personal opportunities and responsibilities, act as local and global citizens and develop green careers. But what do we mean by climate literacy, and how do we cater for the different forms of climate literacy required by different school leavers?
Speakers
avatar for Professor Sylvia Knight

Professor Sylvia Knight

Head of Education, Royal Meteorological society
Sylvia Knight is Head of Education at the Royal Meteorological Society and a visiting Professor in the schools of Education and of Mathematical, Physical and Computational Sciences at the University of Reading. With a background in climate science, her role involves supporting the... Read More →
Thursday January 9, 2025 14:15 - 15:05 GMT
Pope LT C17

14:15 GMT

Generative AI for Primary Science Teachers
Thursday January 9, 2025 14:15 - 15:05 GMT
This session will look at the range of AI tools available to Primary Science Teachers. It will look at how to use free tools such as ChatGPT and Copilot to help with planning and lesson resource creation. It will demonstrate some ways that AI can be used by primary pupils to support science learning. There will be suggestions for other free (or paid) AI tools that are available online that can support planning, teaching and learning. The session will look at the art of creating useful prompts to get the AI to do what you want.

The author of the new book "Science Fix: Science Made Easy for Primary Teachers", Danny Nicholson, will discuss how AI tools can help reduce teacher workload. You will leave equipped with a toolkit of AI resources and strategies to enrich your science curriculum and inspire curiosity in your students.
Speakers
avatar for Danny Nicholson

Danny Nicholson

ITT Lecturer and Consultant, Think Bank Ltd
Thursday January 9, 2025 14:15 - 15:05 GMT
Pope LT C15

15:15 GMT

Chair Chat
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
avatar for David Allen

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 →
avatar for Professor Leigh Hoath

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 →
avatar for Jane Oldham

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 →
avatar for Alex Sinclair

Alex Sinclair

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

15:15 GMT

IOP's Physics and Tea
Thursday January 9, 2025 15:15 - 16:35 GMT
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
IH

Ian Horsewell

Professional Community and Retention Strategic Lead, Institute of Physics
Sponsors
avatar for Institute of Physics

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 →
Thursday January 9, 2025 15:15 - 16:35 GMT
Physics Building foyer

15:45 GMT

ASE Policy Group: what does ASE do for members and what should we do next?
Thursday January 9, 2025 15:45 - 16:35 GMT
Speakers
avatar for Jane Turner CSciTeach

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 →
avatar for Helen Darlington CSciTeach

Helen Darlington CSciTeach

Faculty Progress Leader: Science
Dr Helen Darlington, CSciTeach, is currently Faculty Progress Leader for Science at South Wirral High School. She is an innovative and experienced teacher of science, biology and psychology with over 20 years of classroom experience. In addition to classroom teaching she has had a... Read More →
Thursday January 9, 2025 15:45 - 16:35 GMT
Chemistry LT X2 (with sink)

15:45 GMT

Improving the Quality of Primary Science in the East Midlands.
Thursday January 9, 2025 15:45 - 16:35 GMT
Primary Science Quality Mark hub leaders from the East Midlands will share examples from schools across the region of the impact of the year-long, PSQM professional development and wider school improvement programme on science subject leadership, teaching and learning and curriculum design. The PSQM programme provides expert support to science subject leads to equip them to to identify development priorities and professional learning needs leading to a transformation of the quality and profile of science education in their schools. This session will showcase the impact of science subject leadership development in PSQM schools. Examples will include outcomes in areas such as using assessment to support learning, promoting inclusion and equity, connecting contexts and skills with other curriculum areas and real-world contexts, developing pupils’ scientific vocabulary, teaching the knowledge and skills required to work scientifically and ensuring the science curriculum engages, inspires and challenges all pupils through planned progression in content and procedural knowledge.
Speakers
avatar for Nicola Beverley

Nicola Beverley

Primary science consultant, Nicola Beverley Consultancy Ltd
avatar for Jane Winter

Jane Winter

Professional Development Leader, University of York Centre for Industry Education Collaboration (CIEC)
I love everything to do with primary science, especially the Early Years Foundation Stage. My role at CIEC involves working with teachers to make science enjoyable and worthwhile for both them and their class. I run science and maths courses for Early Years teachers and science courses... Read More →
avatar for Sarah Eames CSciTeach

Sarah Eames CSciTeach

Primary Teacher and PSTT Mentor, Sandfield Close Primary School
Primary Teacher - I love teaching; I also love being a fellow of the Primary Science Teaching Trust and working for them 1 day a week. Yes, the best of both worlds! Proud to be on the ASE Primary Committee.Padlet link for 2024ASE Primary Teachmeet 2024 (padlet.com)... Read More →
avatar for Alex Farrer

Alex Farrer

PSQM Regional Lead (East Midlands), Primary Science Quality Mark
Science Lead at Wimbledon High Junior School/GDST.  PSQM Regional Lead in the East Midlands and PSQM hub leader in SW London. Accredited trainer of the Primary Science Capital Teaching Approach. PSTT Fellow and co-author of the PSTT resources "See Through Science". and "Sketchbook... Read More →
Thursday January 9, 2025 15:45 - 16:35 GMT
Coates C22

15:45 GMT

Introduction to Carbon Literacy for teachers
Thursday January 9, 2025 15:45 - 16:35 GMT
Drawing on the Carbon Literacy Project, come and learn what carbon literacy involves.  More importantly, you will leave with some ideas for how you can make a difference to our planet.
Speakers
avatar for Tanya White

Tanya White

Associate Headteacher, Transform Trust
Associate Headteacher: Science Lead for the Transform Trust (MAT with 21 primary schools in Nottingham and Derby)
Thursday January 9, 2025 15:45 - 16:35 GMT
Pope A17

16:50 GMT

Meet and Greet the ASE Teacher Developers' Committee
Thursday January 9, 2025 16:50 - 17:30 GMT
ASE Teacher Developers' supports those whose roles include:

  1. The design, coordination and facilitation of professional development , mentoring and coaching, whether in school, schools groups or external
  2. Subject and departmental leadership

If this is you, come along to the "Meet the ASE Futures Committee" session at the end of Thursday of Annual Conference 2025. We'll share upcoming activities led by the committee and talk about the ways you can get involved. We are keen to hear your views about how the ASE Futures Group can support you and your colleagues.

We look forward to listening to your questions and will endeavour to answer them!
Speakers
avatar for Emily Perry

Emily Perry

Professor of Education, Sheffield Hallam Institute of Education
avatar for Claire Seeley MA CSciTeach

Claire Seeley MA CSciTeach

Primary Science Education Consultant
Thursday January 9, 2025 16:50 - 17:30 GMT
Pope A1

17:45 GMT

Visit to Nottingham Trent Observatory
Thursday January 9, 2025 17:45 - 19:00 GMT
Thursday January 9, 2025 17:45 - 19:00 GMT
 
Friday, January 10
 

08:45 GMT

Adapting science learning and scaffolding support for specific SEND needs
Friday January 10, 2025 08:45 - 09:35 GMT
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
JG

Jodie Greaves

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

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

08:45 GMT

ASE Primary Committee welcome first-timers to Conference
Friday January 10, 2025 08:45 - 09:35 GMT
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
avatar for Angharad Pass

Angharad Pass

Primary Science Specialist Education Consultant
Friday January 10, 2025 08:45 - 09:35 GMT
Pope LT C15
  Primary

08:45 GMT

CLEAPSS Primary Practical Workshop
Friday January 10, 2025 08:45 - 09:35 GMT
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
JH

Jason Harding

Primary Section Leader, CLEAPSS
avatar for Maria Pack

Maria Pack

Primary Science Consultant, CLEAPSS
avatar for Sally Fulford

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

08:45 GMT

Retrieval Roulette: What works in Primary Science?
Friday January 10, 2025 08:45 - 09:35 GMT
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
avatar for Claire Seeley MA CSciTeach

Claire Seeley MA CSciTeach

Primary Science Education Consultant
avatar for Dr Jo Montgomery

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

08:45 GMT

Primary Science Teaching Trust warmly welcomes all primary teachers
Friday January 10, 2025 08:45 - 16:45 GMT
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
avatar for Ali Eley

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 →
avatar for Barbara French

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

09:45 GMT

Professional registration - what it is and what's involved
Friday January 10, 2025 09:45 - 10:35 GMT
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
avatar for Rob Butler

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 →
avatar for Corinne Stevenson

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

09:45 GMT

Primary keynote: Science influencers: a model for professional identity, esteem and value
Friday January 10, 2025 09:45 - 10:35 GMT
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
CW

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
KP

Karen Peters

Strategic co-lead Science across the city, Science Across the City
avatar for Becki Price

Becki Price

Science Subject Leader, The Willows Primary School
avatar for Dawn McCann

Dawn McCann

Science subject leader, Hillside Primary School
Friday January 10, 2025 09:45 - 10:35 GMT
Pope LT C15

09:45 GMT

IOP's Physics and Tea
Friday January 10, 2025 09:45 - 11:15 GMT
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
IH

Ian Horsewell

Professional Community and Retention Strategic Lead, Institute of Physics
Sponsors
avatar for Institute of Physics

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

11:15 GMT

Chair Chat
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
avatar for Jane Oldham

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 →
avatar for David Allen

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 →
avatar for Alex Sinclair

Alex Sinclair

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

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 →

11:15 GMT

2024 Alexander Award Everyday Science at Sreepur Village Bangladesh
Friday January 10, 2025 11:15 - 12:05 GMT
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
avatar for Dr Lady Sue Dale Tunnicliffe

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

11:15 GMT

Grasping UNESCO Sustainability Competencies through Gaming
Friday January 10, 2025 11:15 - 12:05 GMT
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
RC

Rob Collins

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

11:15 GMT

Making learning fun: Accessibility and engagement outside the classroom
Friday January 10, 2025 11:15 - 12:05 GMT
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
NM

Nikhil Mistry

Head of Curiosity, Winchester Science Centre by Wonderseekers
JH

Jackson Hemming

Curiosity Officer (for Schools), Winchester Science Centre by Wonderseekers
Friday January 10, 2025 11:15 - 12:05 GMT
ESLC C01
  Primary

11:15 GMT

Primary Panel: voices from the global perspective
Friday January 10, 2025 11:15 - 12:05 GMT
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
avatar for Angharad Pass

Angharad Pass

Primary Science Specialist Education Consultant
Friday January 10, 2025 11:15 - 12:05 GMT
Pope LT C15
  Primary

12:15 GMT

How can the science of early brain development strengthen outcomes for children?
Friday January 10, 2025 12:15 - 13:05 GMT
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
avatar for Felicity Gillespie

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 →
avatar for Liz Robinson

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 →
avatar for Molly Devlin

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

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
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
SG

Sara Goodacre

Professor, University of Nottingham (School of Life Sciences)
Friday January 10, 2025 12:15 - 13:05 GMT
Coates C27

13:15 GMT

Formative assessment without pencils
Friday January 10, 2025 13:15 - 14:05 GMT
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
GM

Grace Marson

SEERIH Specialist Lead, University of Manchester
FH

Frances Hunt

SEERIH Specialist Officer, SEERIH, University of Manchester
Friday January 10, 2025 13:15 - 14:05 GMT
ESLC B05
  Primary

13:15 GMT

Inclusive approaches to practical primary science
Friday January 10, 2025 13:15 - 14:05 GMT
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
BT

Bryony Turford

Primary Science Professional Development Leader, My Science Club
avatar for Paul Tyler

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

13:15 GMT

The roles of parents in promoting their children’s interest toward science
Friday January 10, 2025 13:15 - 14:05 GMT
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
avatar for Jamila Hussain

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

14:15 GMT

Is there time and space for climate change in the curriculum?
Friday January 10, 2025 14:15 - 15:05 GMT
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
avatar for Lee Jowett CSciTeach

Lee Jowett CSciTeach

Climate Change and Sustainability Fellow, Sheffield Hallam University Research and Knowledge Exchange Centre
avatar for Joelle Halliday

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

14:15 GMT

Should we use Retrieval Practice? Moving towards Retrieval-based Learning
Friday January 10, 2025 14:15 - 15:05 GMT
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
GB

Gareth Bates

Senior Lecturer, Anglia Ruskin University
Friday January 10, 2025 14:15 - 15:05 GMT
Pope A34

14:15 GMT

Primary swap shop pops up
Friday January 10, 2025 14:15 - 15:05 GMT
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
SK

Sheetal Kowalczyk

Primary Teacher, Bromley High Junior School
Friday January 10, 2025 14:15 - 15:05 GMT
Pope LT C15
  Primary

15:45 GMT

Developing a critically reflective approach to subject leadership
Friday January 10, 2025 15:45 - 16:35 GMT
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
HS

Helen Sizer

Deputy Director, Primary Science Quality Mark
CW

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

15:45 GMT

Flux and stability
Friday January 10, 2025 15:45 - 16:35 GMT
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
avatar for Carol Davenport

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

15:45 GMT

Recognising and teaching the different science enquiry types
Friday January 10, 2025 15:45 - 16:35 GMT
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
avatar for Jane Turner CSciTeach

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 →
avatar for David Allen

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 →
avatar for Liz Lawrence

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

15:45 GMT

The professional journey of two ECT's: from action research to practice.
Friday January 10, 2025 15:45 - 16:35 GMT
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
MF

Megan Fox

Year 1 Primary school Teacher
AB

Amy Barber

Year 3 Primary school teacher
Friday January 10, 2025 15:45 - 16:35 GMT
Pope LT C15

16:45 GMT

Meet and Greet the ASE Primary Committee
Friday January 10, 2025 16:45 - 17:30 GMT
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
avatar for Angharad Pass

Angharad Pass

Primary Science Specialist Education Consultant
Friday January 10, 2025 16:45 - 17:30 GMT
ESLC B04
  Primary

16:45 GMT

CLEAPSS Primary Ambassadors Launch Event - by CLEAPSS' invitation only
Friday January 10, 2025 16:45 - 17:45 GMT
This invitation only reception has been arranged by CLEAPSS and is an opportunity to launch their Primary Ambassadors' work moving forward.
Speakers
avatar for Steve Jones

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 →
avatar for Matt Endean

Matt Endean

Deputy Director, CLEAPSS
JH

Jason Harding

Primary Section Leader, CLEAPSS
Friday January 10, 2025 16:45 - 17:45 GMT
ESLC Level 2 Balcony above main door
  Primary
 
Saturday, January 11
 

08:45 GMT

Can I teach primary science? Yes, you can!
Saturday January 11, 2025 08:45 - 09:35 GMT
How can non-specialists teach high-quality, inspiring, and accurate science lessons confidently in the primary classroom? This session looks at ways to deliver the curriculum and give your pupils a rich science experience even if the last time you were in a lab was your own secondary-school days.
Speakers
avatar for Helen Drury

Helen Drury

Director of Curriculum Programmes, Ark Curriculum Plus
Dr Helen Drury has been at the heart of the national movement to improve maths education over the last decade. She founded Mathematics Mastery, which now works with over 500 schools nationwide and has proof of significant impact from the Education Endowment Foundation. She holds a... Read More →
Sponsors
avatar for Oxford University Press

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 →
Saturday January 11, 2025 08:45 - 09:35 GMT
ESLC B04
  Primary

08:45 GMT

There’s always room for a story!
Saturday January 11, 2025 08:45 - 09:35 GMT
Science and stories, fact or fiction, are means to engage, inspire, enlighten and provoke. Jules and Lynne explore how using story as a pedagogic tool for primary science teachers. Join us for discussion and reflection on the space and place for stories in children’s science learning wherever you are in the world.
Speakers
avatar for Jules Pottle

Jules Pottle

Director, Artful Fox Creatives
I'm an experienced Primary Science Specialist Teacher. I work part-time in a local primary school and part-time as a teacher trainer providing INSET sessions across the country. I also write books to help teachers use oral stories and books in their science lessons to improve engagement... Read More →
avatar for Lynne Bianchi

Lynne Bianchi

Professor / Director, SEERIH, University of Manchester
Vice Dean for Social Responsibility, Equality, Diversity, Inclusion & Accessibility Director of Science & Engineering Education Research and Innovation HubComino Foundation Associate  Great Science Share for Schools Campaign Director Principal Fellow of the HEA  RSA Fellow
Saturday January 11, 2025 08:45 - 09:35 GMT
ESLC B05

08:45 GMT

Wildflower seed bombs- practical approaches using all three sciences
Saturday January 11, 2025 08:45 - 09:35 GMT
The STEM project, which will be presented at Science on Stage at Turku 2024, "Wildflower Seed Bombs Using Recycled Paper," offers an innovative approach to promoting biodiversity and sustainability using all three sciences.  The idea of crafting seed bombs from recycled paper and using native wildflower seeds, aims to address environmental challenges while also finding a way to repurpose recycled paper. This project focuses not only on biodiversity and increasing wildlife in our gardens but also looks at the material composition in creating a perfect seed bomb and investigating how they could dispersed using different flying mechanisms.  
The workshop will look at:

1.Develop a formula for seed bomb construction incorporating different types, length and structure of recycled paper as a primary binding agent.

2. Look at a specific pollinator we will attract and create a Top Trump card for them based on their rarity and usefulness for our wildflower patch.

3. Design a wind dispersal device how to disperse the seed bombs more effectively.
Speakers
MK

Maren Kelly

Head of Maths and Science, St Catherine's Prep School
Saturday January 11, 2025 08:45 - 09:35 GMT
Chemistry lab C10

08:45 GMT

Primary Science Teaching Trust warmly welcomes all primary teachers
Saturday January 11, 2025 08:45 - 14:15 GMT
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
avatar for Ali Eley

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 →
avatar for Barbara French

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 →
Saturday January 11, 2025 08:45 - 14:15 GMT
Pope A17
  Primary

09:45 GMT

The Best of Science on Stage, Turku 2024
Saturday January 11, 2025 09:45 - 10:35 GMT
The biennial Science on Stage Festival took place in Turku, Finland in August 2024.  The Science on Stage Festival brings together hundreds of teachers from across Europe and beyond to share innovate strategies for teaching science from all levels from early years, through primary to secondary.  

In this session, members of the Science on Stage delegation which represented the UK at the Festival will describe and demonstrate some of the best bits from Turku.
Speakers
avatar for Stuart Farmer

Stuart Farmer

Learning and Skills Manager, IOP and Perimeter Institute
I was a teacher of physics in Scotland for over 30 years before becoming the Scottish Education Manager for IOP in February 2019. Throughout this time I have been active in curriculum and assessment development and providing professional learning for teachers. I am a former Chair... Read More →
PE

Paula Egan

Science Technician, Brighton College
MK

Maren Kelly

Head of Maths and Science, St Catherine's Prep School
avatar for Vicky Walsh

Vicky Walsh

Primary Science Coordinator, Monk Fryston C of E Primary School
EC

Emma Crisell

Deputy Head Teacher, Richard Taylor CE Primary
CR

Colleen Reesink-Wells

STEM Director, Roedean School
RE

Rose Edmondson

Falinge Park High School
SB

Sophie Brace

Heath Mount School
NB

Nicky Bolton

Heswall Primary School
Saturday January 11, 2025 09:45 - 10:35 GMT
Coates C27

09:45 GMT

Frontier Science: What are executive functions and how do they help children learn maths and science?
Saturday January 11, 2025 09:45 - 10:35 GMT
Executive functions are a set of cognitive skills that help us to guide and control our attention, thoughts and behaviour in order to think flexibly, work towards goals and ignore distractions. They develop slowly throughout childhood and adolescence but there can also be considerable variation between individuals.

Executive functions are consistent predictors of academic outcomes, such that a child with good executive functions is likely to do well at school. In this session I will review our recent research investigating the role that different aspects of executive function play in maths and science learning at primary and secondary level and make some suggestions about both what can, and what can’t, be done in the classroom to support these important learning skills.
Speakers
LC

Lucy Cragg

University of Nottingham
Saturday January 11, 2025 09:45 - 10:35 GMT
Coates C22

09:45 GMT

Innovative Tech Tools for Primary Science : Science Fix
Saturday January 11, 2025 09:45 - 10:35 GMT
The author of the new book "Science Fix: Science Made Easy for Primary Teachers", Danny Nicholson, will discuss how to use a variety of cheap and free tools for teaching primary science. Using examples drawn from the book, Danny will guide you through the use of these tools, looking at how they can be mapped to the science curriculum as well as computing skills.  The session will look at digital storytelling tools, virtual field trips, data collection and more.

You will leave with knowledge, new skills and a range of ideas to immediately slot into your science plans.
Speakers
avatar for Danny Nicholson

Danny Nicholson

ITT Lecturer and Consultant, Think Bank Ltd
Saturday January 11, 2025 09:45 - 10:35 GMT
ESLC B07

09:45 GMT

Teaching Primary Science Outdoors
Saturday January 11, 2025 09:45 - 10:35 GMT
Teaching Primary Science Outdoors

This hands-on outdoor session will support you in planning and teaching science lessons outdoors. We will focus on planning for, and teaching, conceptual understanding and working scientifically objectives outdoors. We will look at assessment and recording in science lessons that take place outdoors as well as considering some of the specific practicalities of outdoor learning. You will leave with lots of ideas, as well as renewed confidence and enthusiasm to take your science lessons outdoors!

This session related to the book Teaching Primary Science Outdoors sold by the ASE/Millgate House.
Speakers
HS

Helen Spring

Primary Science & Outdoor Learning Consultant, Independent
I am a Primary Science and Outdoor Learning Consultant for Spring Learning and a Primary Consultant for CLEAPSS, as well as the author of 'Teaching Primary Science Outdoors'. I am the co-chair of the ASE's Primary Science Committee, a Primary Science Quality Mark hub leader and t... Read More →
Saturday January 11, 2025 09:45 - 10:35 GMT
ESLC B01

09:45 GMT

Teaching primary science with support from Oak National Academy
Saturday January 11, 2025 09:45 - 10:35 GMT
We are proud to share with you the new primary science curriculum recently launched by Oak National Academy, in partnership with The Centre for Industry Education Collaboration (CIEC), from the University of York.
Oak’s new fully-resourced is built upon the exploration of big questions and employs the latest research-based pedagogical strategies to address common misconceptions while enhancing pupils’ substantive and disciplinary knowledge and vocabulary effectively.

Teachers can access adaptable, sequenced resources, including new and improved slide decks, practice tasks, quizzes and guidance, that provide them with a high-quality starting point for planning their lessons. These have been created to emphasise the development of practical skills, mathematical proficiencies and an understanding of scientific practices, all while embracing diversity as a fundamental principle.

Come and find out about how these high-quality resources can be used to build great curriculum plans and lessons, reduce your lesson planning workload and ultimately improve pupil outcomes.
Speakers
avatar for Nicky Waller

Nicky Waller

Primary science advisory teacher, CIEC, University of York
Hi I am Nicky Waller. I work for CIEC (Centre for Industry Education Collaboration) and as an independent consultant across the NE of England helping to develop children's and teachers' expertise and enjoyment of primary science. I am also the author of 'A Creative Approach to Teaching... Read More →
avatar for Elisabeth Pugh

Elisabeth Pugh

Science lead, The National Academy
Elisabeth is the Science Subject Lead for Oak National Academy. She has worked in science education for over 20 years and has worked as an SME and Science Advisor in EdTech specialising in online learning, assessment, and feedback.
Saturday January 11, 2025 09:45 - 10:35 GMT
Pope A34

09:45 GMT

Vocabulary games
Saturday January 11, 2025 09:45 - 10:35 GMT
The first recommendation in the EEF Improving Primary Science report is that teachers should explicitly teach new vocabulary and its meaning, creating opportunities for repeated engagement and use over time.
In this session, delegates will explore a range of engaging activities and games which will support children to understand, use and remember scientific vocabulary. The approach is non-threatening and accessible to all, while encouraging children to take ownership of their own learning and to reach their full potential. The session will include the vocabulary needed for both content knowledge and working scientifically as well as to promote science capital. Delegates will consider how vocabulary can be used within practical lessons to support children to discuss and explain their science as well as thinking about how it can be pre taught prior to science experiences and reinforced afterwards.
Speakers
avatar for Jane Winter

Jane Winter

Professional Development Leader, University of York Centre for Industry Education Collaboration (CIEC)
I love everything to do with primary science, especially the Early Years Foundation Stage. My role at CIEC involves working with teachers to make science enjoyable and worthwhile for both them and their class. I run science and maths courses for Early Years teachers and science courses... Read More →
Saturday January 11, 2025 09:45 - 10:35 GMT
ESLC C01

09:45 GMT

IOP's Physics and Tea
Saturday January 11, 2025 09:45 - 11:15 GMT
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
IH

Ian Horsewell

Professional Community and Retention Strategic Lead, Institute of Physics
Sponsors
avatar for Institute of Physics

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 →
Saturday January 11, 2025 09:45 - 11:15 GMT
Physics Building foyer

11:15 GMT

Chair Chat
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
avatar for David Allen

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 →
avatar for Professor Leigh Hoath

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 →
avatar for Jane Oldham

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 →
avatar for Alex Sinclair

Alex Sinclair

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

11:15 GMT

PLANning for progression in the working scientifically skills
Saturday January 11, 2025 11:15 - 12:05 GMT
"Leaders' plans to develop pupils’ disciplinary knowledge were usually much less developed than their plans to develop pupils’ substantive knowledge. In general, not enough consideration was given to identifying the disciplinary knowledge, including concepts, that are needed to work scientifically. This limited how effectively leaders could plan a curriculum for pupils to get better at working scientifically over time" - Finding the optimum, Ofsted, February 2023

The PLAN Knowledge Matrices and Examples of Work have successfully supported teachers to plan and confidently assess the substantive knowledge in the National Curriculum in England for Key Stages 1 & 2. In this session, new analogous PLAN resources will be used to demonstrate what working at the expected standard in the working scientifically skills for different year-groups looks like, so teachers can plan appropriate outcomes and make robust assessment judgements.

During the session, the National Curriculum in England working scientifically statements will be broken down so participants understand how different working scientifically skills progress from one phase to the next with examples to illustrate this progression.

Delegates who participate in the session will:

•access resources that will support the teaching and assessment of the working scientifically skills
•understand how the different working scientifically skills progress between phases
•be shown what pupils’ work that meets the expectations looks like for the different working scientifically skills in different phases.
Speakers
avatar for Naomi Hiscock

Naomi Hiscock

Director, Primary STEM Education Consultancy
Naomi has almost 20 years’ experience as a primary STEM education consultant and is Director of Primary STEM Education Consultancy, one of the most successful specialist primary STEM education consultancies in England. It provides advice to national bodies, local authorities, education partnerships and multi-academy trusts on devising and implementing strategies for primary science and D&T, as well as working... Read More →
Saturday January 11, 2025 11:15 - 12:05 GMT
ESLC B01

11:15 GMT

Play, Be, C: Supporting STEM in early years
Saturday January 11, 2025 11:15 - 12:05 GMT
Play is key for young children’s learning, and the world around them is a source of wonder and interest. Using play based methods, NUSTEM have developed a resource to help early years educators introduce young children to STEM careers. The resources are designed to support adults without a science or STEM background to confidently engage children with science and careers.

In this session we will look at why it’s important to introduce STEM careers into early years and how we can help children playfully explore the world around them through the award winning Play, Be, C resource.
Speakers
avatar for Carol Davenport

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 →
MH

Melanie Horan

NUSTEM Primary Outreach Officer, Northumbria University
Saturday January 11, 2025 11:15 - 12:05 GMT
ESLC B04

11:15 GMT

Research Keynote: Purposeful and effective practical work in primary science
Saturday January 11, 2025 11:15 - 12:05 GMT
Practical work can fulfil many purposes in the primary science classroom, but which should be the focus, and how do we know if practical work has been used effectively? This research project has been funded by the Nuffield Foundation and draws upon expertise from Bath Spa University (Sarah Earle and Stuart Read) and The University of Manchester (Lynne Bianchi and Julie Jordan) to consider practical work from a uniquely primary perspective.

In this session, we will explore findings from the literature, a national stakeholder survey and teacher interviews to draw conclusions about purposeful practical work. We will share draft guidance and invite discussion about how to support effective practical work in primary science.
Speakers
avatar for Julie Jordan

Julie Jordan

Visiting Researcher University of Manchester, University of Manchester
avatar for Lynne Bianchi

Lynne Bianchi

Professor / Director, SEERIH, University of Manchester
Vice Dean for Social Responsibility, Equality, Diversity, Inclusion & Accessibility Director of Science & Engineering Education Research and Innovation HubComino Foundation Associate  Great Science Share for Schools Campaign Director Principal Fellow of the HEA  RSA Fellow
avatar for Sarah Earle

Sarah Earle

Professor of Primary Science Education, Bath Spa University
Saturday January 11, 2025 11:15 - 12:05 GMT
Pope LT C15
  Primary

11:15 GMT

Wow! Why though?
Saturday January 11, 2025 11:15 - 12:05 GMT
Join us for this practical session that looks at how to ensure meaningful learning happens when awe and wonder experiences are brought into the primary classroom. We'll look at some familiar and some new 'wow factor' activities and consider how these can be linked to the curriculum, how the science applies in the real world and how learning can be made relevant to children's own lives.

This session related to Kathryn's book Wow! But Why though? Sold by the ASE/ Millgate House bookshop
Speakers
avatar for Kathryn Horan CSciTeach

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 →
Saturday January 11, 2025 11:15 - 12:05 GMT
ESLC C01

11:15 GMT

Schools Exhibition
Saturday January 11, 2025 11:15 - 13:15 GMT
The ASE Schools’ Exhibition has become one of the most popular elements of the ASE Annual Conference every January. Schools from all sectors of education are invited to present a science project happening in their classrooms or science/STEM clubs. One teacher from each school is invited to provide a display, which can include artefacts and/or posters illustrating their school project, and is invited to talk about their project. Up to 2 pupils can accompany their teacher to help demonstrate their activities and talk about their school project.

Come along to the Schools' Exhibition to chat with the project leaders and educators, and find out more what has been going on in other schools and STEM clubs.
Saturday January 11, 2025 11:15 - 13:15 GMT
Chemistry Building Foyer

12:15 GMT

Science Education Beyond the Classroom
Saturday January 11, 2025 12:15 - 13:05 GMT
Have you recently left the classroom, or perhaps considering alternative career paths in science education? Maybe you are considering part time with a related role elsewhere. There is an increasing rise in the ‘portfolio’ career for educators. Come along to this discussion to consider the risks, opportunities, pros and cons of diversifying beyond the classroom. If you have already developed this sort of career come along and share your experiences.
Speakers
avatar for Joanna Pellereau

Joanna Pellereau

Teaching Fellow, University of Warwick
Having been a physics teacher and Head of Department for over a decade, I am now a teaching fellow at the Centre for Teacher Education at the University of Warwick. I am also a University Lead Mentor at the National Institute of Teaching and Education at Coventry University. I also... Read More →
Saturday January 11, 2025 12:15 - 13:05 GMT
Pope LT C17

12:15 GMT

STREAMlining our approach to teaching and learning scientific vocabulary.
Saturday January 11, 2025 12:15 - 13:05 GMT
The publication of the EEF’s Improving Primary Science report led us to reflect on our own practice and collaborate with 14 local schools to develop and trial a range of activities that provide explicit opportunities for pupils to engage with vocabulary over time both within science lessons and across the wider primary curriculum. Our "STREAM" approach aims to add breadth and depth to science vocabulary retrieval using authentic contexts such as stories and real-world problems that connect to pupils’ experiences. Linking high-quality class texts, STEAM challenges and playful vocabulary activities gives teachers and pupils the opportunity to contextualise and practice new vocabulary, improve engagement, build positive attitudes towards science and improve academic outcomes for all pupils. In this session, participants will have the opportunity to explore the activities and provide feedback, reflect on their own teaching strategies, and discuss whole-school planning ideas.
Speakers
avatar for Alex Farrer

Alex Farrer

PSQM Regional Lead (East Midlands), Primary Science Quality Mark
Science Lead at Wimbledon High Junior School/GDST.  PSQM Regional Lead in the East Midlands and PSQM hub leader in SW London. Accredited trainer of the Primary Science Capital Teaching Approach. PSTT Fellow and co-author of the PSTT resources "See Through Science". and "Sketchbook... Read More →
EJ

Elizabeth Jenkins

Assistant Head Academic and Innovation, Wimbledon High School
Saturday January 11, 2025 12:15 - 13:05 GMT
ESLC B07

12:15 GMT

Use Your Classroom to Promote Diversity in Science
Saturday January 11, 2025 12:15 - 13:05 GMT
In this session, we discuss the importance of diverse role models. Our presenter delves into the meaning of diversity and common misconceptions that ‘diversity’ brings.We will be signposting high quality resources that are easy to add to your curriculum while enriching your science lessons. Particularly aimed at class teachers, science subject leaders, student teachers and anyone with an interest in primary science education.
Speakers
avatar for Alison Trew

Alison Trew

Impact & Research Director (acting) and Regional Mentor, Primary Science Teaching Trust
PSTT Projects/Resources: Did you know? (Introducing cutting-edge research to primary children), A Scientist Just Like Me, Standing On the Shoulders of Giants, Floorbooks, Play Observe & Ask (Early Years), Air Pollution Research. Accredited trainer for: Thinking Doing Talking Science... Read More →
avatar for Kulvinder Johal

Kulvinder Johal

Regional Mentor for London and the S.E., Primary Science Teaching Trust
Saturday January 11, 2025 12:15 - 13:05 GMT
ESLC B05

13:15 GMT

Keynote: Can Geology save the world?
Saturday January 11, 2025 13:15 - 14:05 GMT
Geologists just look at rocks, right? In this talk, I’ll invite you to reimagine the almost unimaginable ways in which geology shapes our lives, livelihoods, and Labour's red wall. I’ll show how many of the great social, environmental and economic challenges of the 21st Century require the work of Geoscientists…
Speakers
CA

Christopher Aiden-Lee Jackson

Professor of Basin Analysis, Imperial College London (Dept of Earth Science & Engineering)
Chris Jackson is Technical Director at the engineering consultancy WSP and Visiting Professor of Basin Analysis at Imperial College London. Chris works in the general area of sedimentary basin analysis. When not studying the subsurface of the Earth, Chris gives geoscience lectures... Read More →
Saturday January 11, 2025 13:15 - 14:05 GMT
Pope LT C15

14:15 GMT

Primary Teach Meet
Saturday January 11, 2025 14:15 - 15:05 GMT
The primary teach meet is a great opportunity for people from the Primary Science Education Community to come together to network and hear about top tips, inspiring resources and not-to-be-missed opportunities.
Speakers
avatar for Sarah Eames CSciTeach

Sarah Eames CSciTeach

Primary Teacher and PSTT Mentor, Sandfield Close Primary School
Primary Teacher - I love teaching; I also love being a fellow of the Primary Science Teaching Trust and working for them 1 day a week. Yes, the best of both worlds! Proud to be on the ASE Primary Committee.Padlet link for 2024ASE Primary Teachmeet 2024 (padlet.com)... Read More →
SK

Sheetal Kowalczyk

Primary Teacher, Bromley High Junior School
Saturday January 11, 2025 14:15 - 15:05 GMT
ESLC C01
  Primary

15:30 GMT

Avoiding Early Misconceptions
Saturday January 11, 2025 15:30 - 16:20 GMT
This session will look at how to engage EYFS pupils of all abilities with science without introducing misconceptions. We will consider some key topics and ways to teach them through simple but correct explanations and practical experiments. This will be linked to the English National Curriculum, but with applicability to other curricula. There will be an opportunity to share ideas with other EYFS teachers.
Speakers
CA

Christina Arundel

EYFS Lead, Beacon Academy
Saturday January 11, 2025 15:30 - 16:20 GMT
ESLC B04

15:30 GMT

Build vocabulary and deepen knowledge: teaching Materials with Explorify
Saturday January 11, 2025 15:30 - 16:20 GMT
We will introduce and model a simple framework for sequencing Explorify activities to help build children’s long-term memory. We will use new and updated activities which elicit children’s existing knowledge and provide opportunities to practice tier 3 science topic specific vocabulary. The Education Endowment Foundation’s research into teaching primary science advocates using vocabulary approaches that promote rich language connections. Explorify’s award winning activities provide this, together with the opportunity for children to verbally explain their thinking. This helps the children refine their understanding and particularly benefits pupils from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds. We will try practical activities that help build children’s science understanding and experience in the trickier parts of the materials curriculum. Then we will consider how children’s knowledge can be deepened using Explorify activities for retrieval practice and making links with prior learning.
Speakers
avatar for Rebecca Ellis

Rebecca Ellis

Explorify Engagement Leader, Primary Science Teaching Trust
I have been a teacher for 20 years and prior to that I was a research scientist (with a doctorate in environmental engineering).
avatar for Jo Moore

Jo Moore

Area Mentor, Primary Science Teaching Trust
After some 18 years in teaching, I joined the Primary Science Teaching Trust as an Explorify Engagement Leader. Together with colleagues, I am responsible for content and supporting teachers to use the activities in the classroom. Before joining Explorify, I was a specialist primary... Read More →
Saturday January 11, 2025 15:30 - 16:20 GMT
Chemistry Lab C10 A

15:30 GMT

Working like a scientist - skills boost
Saturday January 11, 2025 15:30 - 16:20 GMT
Where previous COVID-19 restrictions deprived many teachers and pupils of the opportunities to teach and learn through practical science activities, have you noticed that practical science has been / continues to be affected? Using research shared in ‘Finding the Optimum’, we’ll open a discussion around the continued need to to develop and build on children's Working Scientifically skills. This hands-on practical workshop will share CIEC’s strategies to get children working like scientists, focussing on improving resilience, collaboration and disciplinary skills.
Speakers
avatar for Melanie Boyeson

Melanie Boyeson

Primary Science Advisory Teacher (Humber), Centre for Industry Education Collaboration (CIEC)
Saturday January 11, 2025 15:30 - 16:20 GMT
ESLC B05
  Primary
 

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