The Easter Bush Science Outreach Centre (EBSOC) at University of Edinburgh has teamed up with RAiSE to bring the joy of micro-organisms to life for children throughout Scotland.
Thanks to securing a grant from the Microbiology Society, Dr Laura Glendinning, a Roslin Institute researcher, was able to develop a microbiology toolkit and professional learning session.
The kits and learning are now being cascaded throughout RAiSE’s network of Primary Science Development Officers, engaging children in their local habitat and developing their scientific inquiry skills.
Dr Glendinning said:
“I loved pond dipping as a child; it helped spark a lifelong love of science. I wanted to develop a kit and lesson plans so that teachers could give all children the opportunity to see in minute detail how incredible nature is.”
There are 30 sets available which include microscopes, slides, pond samples and teaching resources. The teaching guide is freely available and is focussed on ages 9-13.
Gayle Duffus leads RAiSE, a programme of The Wood Foundation, Scottish Government, Education Scotland, and participating local authorities which empowers primary practitioners with the skills, networks, and opportunities to develop and deliver motivating and engaging STEM experiences. She said:
“This is a wonderful kit which is really exciting pupils and schools. The training and resources which sit around it have been incredibly insightful and inspiring and we look forward to continue cascading this throughout our networks.”
More than 250 pupils have already been engaged in the resources to date.
Read the full case study here.