![Why science matters](https://attraxcdnprod1-freshed3dgayb7c3.z01.azurefd.net/1481118/739eb969-c402-42a7-9764-652d438952f3/2023.17000.1254/img/fLyXl8GqD0pL6AjZXWcj3A/Science+Students.jpg?v=44712d98c3465f12e16c57f6c4ff3aa0)
Why science matters: Getting students excited about chemistry and beyond
Science is one of the key pillars of education around the world, yet in the United Kingdom we are facing not only a shortage of scientifically-literate primary school teachers, but also a lack of dedicated teaching time. This has led Ofsted’s Chief Inspector Amanda Spielman to express a concern about science being squeezed out of primary school curriculums. While the focus on science in schools appears to be diminishing, its dominance in everyday life – particularly future careers – is only accelerating.
By 2030, it’s expected that 1.5 million people will be classified as under-skilled in one STEM workplace skill. This, coupled with the falling grades falling grades in GCSE science, paints a clear picture that more needs to be done to inspire students to engage with the subject. For science teachers at all levels, the opportunity couldn’t be clearer.
Every child should have a background in science
While not every pupil will be a budding Isaac Newton or Marie Curie, they should all have, at the very least, a solid understanding of basic scientific principles. While it can be difficult for children to grasp, science is all around them – from the transport they take into school in the morning to the trees that produce oxygen for them to breathe – and can give them the skills to ask questions, collect information and solve problems. Applying science practically in this way, and engaging students with the science that is around them is a top teaching technique for biology teachers.
Keeping pace with the digital transformation
Professor John Baruch, director of the Leeds Beckett University Centre for Education for the Fourth Industrial Revolution, says that science is at risk of being left behind in primary schools, despite it being the backbone of new technologies - such as robotics and AI - that will play an integral role in societies of the future. PwC revealed that by the mid-2030s, around 30% of jobs are likely to become automated.
Professor Baruch is, therefore, insistent that British education should be science-based in order for children to prosper in the future, providing hands-on experience with materials and models as well as an understanding of the practical sciences of biology, chemistry and physics. As a fundamental pillar of innovation, human advancement and global competitiveness, science helps the world to advance – and helps children learn to question the world around them.
Make a difference in your teaching
Students with good teachers can make progress twice as fast as those without, according to Wellcome, yet many primary school teachers have ‘inadequate’ knowledge of basic science, as says IVF pioneer Lord Winston. So how can you improve your science teaching skills and better engage your students?
Practicals
One of the best ways to get pupils to connect with science is by incorporating practical, hands-on activities into your lesson plans. Practical lesson ideas can include classic chemical reaction demonstrations, or activities such as egg in a bottle (which demonstrates pressure) and generating electricity with a comb and lightbulb. Anything that pupils can try out themselves – and can be linked to a theoretical science learning – will help them to understand more about this subject and prepare them for mock exams.
Incorporate technology
Research shows 87% of parents believe their children would be more engaged with science lessons if teaching used the most advanced technology, and while hi-tech products and software may not be available in all schools, teachers should look for ways to incorporate technology in their science lessons.
The value of digital tools in science classes goes beyond helping students visualise complex processes; it also adds an element of role play and gives students an insight into the exciting work that scientists do. Augmented and virtual reality can be one cost-effective way of doing this, with some programmes accessible through mobile apps and low-cost headsets. Try Anatomy 4D, AR Cell and Science AR to get you started.
Rediscover your passion for science
Finally, it’s essential that you are enthusiastic about and committed to bringing science to life for pupils. Wellcome research shows this has a direct impact on how engaged pupils are in science lessons. Develop your understanding by searching the STEM Learning to find specially curated resources for both primary and secondary science. This includes everything from booklets, PowerPoints and videos that are useful for supplementing your own learning and taking your lesson planning to the next level. Professional development courses, such as Teaching Personnel’s CPD Academy or SKE courses, can also help you strengthen your specialist subject knowledge and overall teaching abilities.
Find your next science teacher opportunity
Are you ready to put these teaching practices into action? Whether you’re looking for a primary teacher or secondary teacher job, we could have the perfect opportunity to help progress your career. Take a look at our science teacher jobs and start your application.
Teaching Personnel has been partnering with UK schools since 1996, helping to match the right candidate to the right classroom. We're the UK's leading education recruitment agency, but we do more than help candidates find their next teaching job. Candidate care is a huge priority for us, and we'll do everything that we can to make your job search as easy as possible, like helping you understand how to renew your DBS check. If you’d like to hear more about our service, get in touch.
Sign up to posts
Related jobs
Salary
£12.91 - 12.91 per hour + Additional Benefits
Location free text
Swansea
Job Type
Full Time
Salary
£10 - £19 per hour
Sector
Teaching Assistant
Location
Swansea
Description
Gradudate Teaching AssistantTeaching Personnel are currently looking for keen individual looking for a way into the world of education.If you are a recent gradudate looking to start an exciting new ca
Reference
JD/SAWW/0078
Expiry Date
DD01YY
Author
Swansea Secondary & SENAuthor
Swansea Secondary & SENSalary
£12.91 - 12.91 per hour + Additional Benefits
Location free text
Port Talbot
Job Type
Full Time
Salary
£10 - £19 per hour
Sector
Teaching Assistant
Location
Neath-Port Talbot
Description
Trainee Teaching Assistant (Neath) Are you interested in getting into Education as a Teaching Assistant?Available for either day to day supply or a full-time position?Live near Port Talbot and its su
Reference
JD/SAWW/0081
Expiry Date
DD01YY
Author
Swansea Secondary & SENAuthor
Swansea Secondary & SENSalary
£25 - 35 per hour
Location free text
Darlington
Job Type
Flexible Working
Salary
£20 - £29 per hour
£30 per hour and above
Sector
Tutor/Intervention
Location
Darlington
Description
TP Tutors are currently working with Local Authorities and Schools in the Darlington area, who are seeking a functional skills tutor to help support children with both their Maths and English skills.W
Reference
EP Darlington FS
Expiry Date
DD01YY
Author
North East TuitionAuthor
North East TuitionSalary
£20 - 25 per hour
Location free text
Manchester
Job Type
Flexible Working
Salary
£20 - £29 per hour
Sector
Tutor/Intervention
Location
Manchester
Description
Teaching Personnel are specialists in providing 1-1 tuition for young people who are not in education. We have an urgent need for tutors in Manchester and the surrounding areas.These pupils have a ran
Reference
10SFManSEN26/07
Expiry Date
DD01YY
Author
North TuitionAuthor
North TuitionSalary
£84 - 100 per day
Location free text
Knowle
Job Type
Flexible Working
Salary
Less than £100 per day
£10 - £19 per hour
Sector
Teaching Assistant
Location
Bristol
Description
We’re seeking a resilient, optimistic leader who can support children who have challenging behavioural and emotional needs. The role is for a teaching assistant, but requires you to be an influential
Reference
CHKnowle
Expiry Date
DD01YY
Author
Bristol SENAuthor
Bristol SENSalary
£13.50 - 18.00 per hour
Location free text
Oldham
Job Type
Flexible Working
Salary
£10 - £19 per hour
Sector
Cover Supervisor
Location
Oldham
Description
Cover Supervisor Opportunity for Graduates Location: Secondary Schools in Oldham and Greater Manchester Contract Type: Full-time, Permanent Are you a recent graduate looking to gain valuable experi
Reference
CSOLD1396
Expiry Date
DD01YY
Author
Manchester North SecondaryAuthor
Manchester North SecondarySalary
£90 - 125 per day
Location free text
Oldham
Job Type
Full Time
Salary
£20,000 - £29,999
Sector
Cover Supervisor
Location
Oldham
Description
Are you a recent Science graduate looking to kickstart your career in education? Our partner secondary school in Oldham is seeking a passionate and dedicated Science graduate to join their team as a C
Reference
SciGrad1396
Expiry Date
DD01YY
Author
Manchester North SecondaryAuthor
Manchester North SecondarySalary
£12.90 - 14.00 per hour + Training & Flexibility
Location free text
Barry
Job Type
Part Time
Salary
Less than £20,000
Less than £100 per day
Less than £500 per week
£10 - £19 per hour
Sector
Teaching Assistant
Location
Vale of Glamorgan
Description
Full and Part Time Learning Support Assistants needed across Penarth and Barry, starting September 2024. Learning Support Assistant – Full or Part TimeStarting September 2024. 6-month initial contract
Reference
593LSAFL
Expiry Date
DD01YY
Author
South Wales SecondaryAuthor
South Wales SecondarySalary
Market related
Location free text
Bournemouth
Job Type
Full Time
Salary
£10 - £19 per hour
Sector
Teaching Assistant
Location
Bournemouth
Description
Are you dedicated to creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment? If so, we have an exciting opportunity for you in within a secondary school in Bournemouth! Position: Secondary School
Reference
BSA394
Expiry Date
DD01YY
Author
Dorset & Hants SecondaryAuthor
Dorset & Hants SecondarySalary
£90 - 125 per day
Location free text
Oldham
Job Type
Full Time
Salary
£100 - £199 per day
£10 - £19 per hour
£20 - £29 per hour
Sector
Cover Supervisor
Location
Oldham
Description
Are you a recent graduate in Design and Technology (DT) looking to kickstart your career in education? Our partner secondary school in Oldham is seeking a passionate and dedicated DT graduate to join
Reference
DTGRAD1396
Expiry Date
DD01YY
Author
Manchester North SecondaryAuthor
Manchester North SecondaryRelated posts
![Educator CPD Academy](https://attraxcdnprod1-freshed3dgayb7c3.z01.azurefd.net/1481118/739eb969-c402-42a7-9764-652d438952f3/2023.17000.1254/img/Av_2V6F5aEC2twjcn_1j1w/75/login_1920x1080+1.png)
Teaser
EducatorsContent Type
TP-PostsPublish date
DD07YY
Summary
At the end of August, we are excited to unveil our new eLearning platform, the Educator CPD Academy. This innovative platform will enhance your learning experience while maintaining acc
by
Zuzana Vrtalova
![](https://attraxcdnprod1-freshed3dgayb7c3.z01.azurefd.net/1481118/739eb969-c402-42a7-9764-652d438952f3/2023.17000.1254/img/ryYLTAUgi0K13Ajcn_1j1w/75/Beach+Chairs.jpg)
Teaser
EducatorsContent Type
TP-PostsPublish date
DD07YY
Summary
School is finally out for summer. Final-year students have left with scribbled shirts for pastures new. Final assemblies have taken place, and thank-you cards and gifts have been gratefully receiv
![](https://attraxcdnprod1-freshed3dgayb7c3.z01.azurefd.net/1481118/739eb969-c402-42a7-9764-652d438952f3/2023.17000.1254/img/6QReUHkFpkYLOgjaBTTvuQ/75/art_teacher.jpg)
Teaser
EducatorsContent Type
TP-PostsPublish date
DD05YY
Summary
Poor attendance has been an issue across the UK since the pandemic. According to recent statistics, pupil absenteeism in England soared to 22% by 2023. This equates to over 125,000 pupils missing
![](https://attraxcdnprod1-freshed3dgayb7c3.z01.azurefd.net/1481118/739eb969-c402-42a7-9764-652d438952f3/2023.17000.1254/img/92m1zD5ZCUNS3wjccMG0QA/75/student_doing_exam_on_desk.jpg)
Teaser
Tips and AdviceContent Type
TP-PostsPublish date
DD05YY
Summary
As the academic year peaks, the pressure of exams can overwhelm pupils. Many teachers believe that tests and exams have the biggest impact on students’ mental health. With GCSEs, SATs, and A-Levels
![](https://attraxcdnprod1-freshed3dgayb7c3.z01.azurefd.net/1481118/739eb969-c402-42a7-9764-652d438952f3/2023.17000.1254/img/1JiaUO95dEYk0QjcZPn_1w/75/AdobeStock_547795360-medium.jpg)
Teaser
Tips and AdviceContent Type
TP-PostsPublish date
DD04YY
Summary
The teacher recruitment crisis is a priority for school leaders across the country. In the 2021–22 academic year, 4000 teachers retired, and 9% of the teaching workforce resigned, marking the highes
![](https://attraxcdnprod1-freshed3dgayb7c3.z01.azurefd.net/1481118/739eb969-c402-42a7-9764-652d438952f3/2023.17000.1254/img/LyDe-9wTrUrDVQjcOQ04FQ/75/nest-with-colored-eggs-near-tulips-easter.jpg)
Teaser
EducatorsContent Type
TP-PostsPublish date
DD03YY
Summary
Planning for the Easter break? The Teaching Personnel payroll team wants to make sure you get paid on time. This table outlines the Easter 2024 payroll date, along with the corresponding deadline
by
Adam Davies
![Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Working as a Supply Teacher](https://attraxcdnprod1-freshed3dgayb7c3.z01.azurefd.net/1481118/739eb969-c402-42a7-9764-652d438952f3/2023.17000.1254/img/56oIbyPYNk995QjZ3DQLFw/75/interested-middle-school-students-in-biology-class-picture-id877033978+(2)-min.jpg)
Teaser
Supply TeachingContent Type
TP-PostsPublish date
DD01YY
Summary
Table of Contents 1. Why do people become supply teachers? 2. What does it take to become a supply teacher? 3. How can I find work as a supply teacher? <!-- b--> 4. How shou
by
Alex Schulte
![](https://attraxcdnprod1-freshed3dgayb7c3.z01.azurefd.net/1481118/739eb969-c402-42a7-9764-652d438952f3/2023.17000.1254/img/E2R5-IdjYksh3QjcEq5ogA/75/iStock-911030084.jpg)
Teaser
EducatorsContent Type
TP-PostsPublish date
DD01YY
Summary
Special Educational Needs (SEN) provision in schools is a critical aspect of education that demands attention in 2024. According to the Department for Education, over 1.5 million pupils in England
![](https://attraxcdnprod1-freshed3dgayb7c3.z01.azurefd.net/1481118/739eb969-c402-42a7-9764-652d438952f3/2023.17000.1254/img/7BJGolQM70gr5Qjb55O_4g/75/iStock-1007220880-small.jpg)
Teaser
Multi-Academy TrustsContent Type
TP-PostsPublish date
DD11YY
Summary
Laura Williams is an education leadership coach with fifteen years of leadership experience in education across business, operations, HR, finance and governance. She is a former Business Manager, CO
![](/Blob/images/user_no_image.jpg)
by
Scott Owen
![](https://attraxcdnprod1-freshed3dgayb7c3.z01.azurefd.net/1481118/739eb969-c402-42a7-9764-652d438952f3/2023.17000.1254/img/nycCJ-tYgkdMngjb4FEIgw/75/iStock-1459337127.jpg)
Teaser
EducatorsContent Type
TP-PostsPublish date
DD11YY
Summary
Creating a safe and nurturing environment for pupils is paramount in the age of evolving social dynamics. One issue that has gained significant attention in recent years is the distinction between
by
Adam Davies
Register with us
for work in schools across England & Wales
Register today
Recent job