By Gavin Mackintosh
Four Bedford schools have been awarded special primary science quality mark for their advancement in science. Putnoe Primary School, in Bedford, and Renhold V.C. Primary School, in Renhold, both received a PSQM Gilt.
John Donne Church of England Primary School, in Blunham, and Kempston Rural Primary School, in Kempston, were also awarded the PSQM. Kempston Rural(pictured) has been doing so well that it was recently selected to participate in 2Simple’s Centre of Excellence programme.
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Delivered by organisations across the science community,the award focuses on developing and improving leadership and teaching of science in primary schools. It is delivered by the University of Hertfordshire’s School of Education, with support from the Primary Science Teaching Trust.
Schools that demonstrate quality improvement in the teaching and learning of science meet the PSQM Gilt criteria. The rewarded schools have shown a remarkable level of understanding of scientific topics with pupils making good progress in their knowledge of science.
Pupils in these schools generally are well behaved, focused and enthusiastic thanks to the strategic methods of teaching. Their love for art and music is also said to influence their overall responsiveness to teaching.Many of the young children are able to explain scientific principles and methodology impressively and are also doing well in English and history.
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Kemptson rural school for example, form time to time invite parents to observe and participate in the English language lessons, contributing to the high quality learning of grammar and punctuation.
Associate Professor Jane Turner, PSQM Director at the University of Hertfordshire, said: “The PSQM is a significant achievement for schools.
“Since its introduction in 2010, the Mark has raised the profile of science in primary schools across the country, providing them with a framework and professional support to develop science leadership, teaching and learning.
“The standard of submissions for this round has been incredibly high; schools which have been awarded the Mark should be very proud.”
The PSQM scheme enables schools to work together to share good practice and is supported by professional development led by local experts.
It encourages teacher autonomy and innovation, while offering a clear framework for development.
In 2013, a partnership was formed between the Primary Science Teaching Trust and University of Hertfordshire School of Education to enable continued growth of the PSQM.
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