ASE 2025 Annual Conference: Full Schedule

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

08:45 GMT

Behind the AI curtain: How CENTURY use ML to accelerate learning

Thursday January 9, 2025 08:45 - 09:35 GMT

ESLC C01

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

Christopher Richards

Century Tech

Thursday January 9, 2025 08:45 - 09:35 GMT
ESLC C01

All

Theme Using AI to deliver the science curriculum
Key Stage / Audience Type ECTs, Global, Industry, Teacher Developers, 5 to 7, 7 to 11, 11-14, 14-16, FE/Skills, ITEs, Trainees
Twitter feed @thisiscentury

09:45 GMT

CLEAPSS: Biology practicals that work

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

ESLC C01

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

Speakers

Ai-Linh Tran

Biology Advisor, CLEAPSS

I worked as a biology teacher for over 11 years, both in the UK and overseas, before joining CLEAPSS in 2017.The focus of this session is to demonstrate examples of biology practicals that actually work! We will explore the published guidance on the CLEAPSS website and look at how... Read More →

Thursday January 9, 2025 09:45 - 10:35 GMT
ESLC C01

11-19

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

11:15 GMT

Making learning fun: Accessibility and engagement outside the classroom

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

ESLC C01

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

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

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

Speakers

Nikhil Mistry

Head of Curiosity, Winchester Science Centre by Wonderseekers

Jackson Hemming

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

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

Primary

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

12:15 GMT

CLEAPSS: The rise of microscale chemistry

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

ESLC C01

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

Speakers

Magda Polec

Chemistry Advisor, CLEAPSS

Bob Worley

CLEAPSS

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

11-19

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

13:15 GMT

Inclusive approaches to practical primary science

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

ESLC C01

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

The session will include:

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

Speakers

Bryony Turford

Primary Science Professional Development Leader, My Science Club

Paul Tyler

Owner / Director, My Science Club

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

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

Primary

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

14:15 GMT

Is Neuorodivergence a science superpower? Supporting neurodiverse teachers and students

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

ESLC C01

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

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

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

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

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

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

Speakers

Rachel Hartley

Pedagogy and Professional Practice Strategic Lead, Institute of Physics

Carole Kenrick

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

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

11-19

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

15:45 GMT

Scientists can look like me: challenging stereotypes in primary science

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

ESLC C01

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

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

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

Speakers

Hannah Jeffares

Creative Schools Project Coordinator, Z-arts

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

Sarah Punshon

Artistic Director, One Tenth Human

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

Primary

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

09:45 GMT

Vocabulary games

Saturday January 11, 2025 09:45 - 10:35 GMT

ESLC C01

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

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

Primary

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

11:15 GMT

Wow! Why though?

Saturday January 11, 2025 11:15 - 12:05 GMT

ESLC C01

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

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

Primary

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

14:15 GMT

Primary Teach Meet

Saturday January 11, 2025 14:15 - 15:05 GMT

ESLC C01

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

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 →

Sheetal Kowalczyk

Primary Teacher, Bromley High Junior School

Saturday January 11, 2025 14:15 - 15:05 GMT
ESLC C01

Primary

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

15:30 GMT

Raise energy literacy through play, with Megawatt!

Saturday January 11, 2025 15:30 - 16:20 GMT

ESLC C01

Discover Energy with Megawatt! Megawatt is a STEM card game that challenges players to build an electricity grid, teaching about energy and climate change, systems thinking, problem-solving and inspiring the next generation of scientists and engineers to take on the task of helping the world reach net zero.

In collaboration with the ASE, the creators of Megawatt have gone on to develop material for teachers to use as the basis for three lessons, with activities, relating to power generation. These are:

1. ***Energy Resources***: a detailed look at the different ways in which power may be generated, with a focus on evaluating the pros and the cons – and with a lively activity to follow.
2. ***Energy Mix***: how different countries generate their power, with a focus on developing a good mix based on the resources available – and with students working on a good energy mix for a particular island.
3. ***National Grid***: how a national grid works – and here with students now designing a grid for the same island.

**Who is this for?**

Megawatt alongside its teaching resources have been successfully used, with adaptations, with students aged from 10 to 17 – but predominantly we’ve been working with those aged around 13 to 15. It ties in very well with a variety of STEM curricula used in a range of different educational systems. It is also relevant in geography classes.

**How does it work?**

It is possible just to take a short lesson of, say, 45 minutes or one hour and play the game. It’s not hard to learn, and it’s a great motivational tool, introducing students to the topic of power generation.

Ideally, we recommend devoting a full school day to using the complete range of materials. In many cases, Megawatt can provide a facilitator to come to your school and lead the whole session, or teacher training to support you in integrating these lessons into your curriculum teaching.

Speakers

Miguel Trenkel-Lopez

Curieus Games CIC

Saturday January 11, 2025 15:30 - 16:20 GMT
ESLC C01

11-19

Key Stage / Audience Type 11-14, 14-16, Global, Industry, ECTs, Teacher Developers
Twitter feed @curieusgames