A programme which empowers teachers with the confidence and skills to deliver inspiring and motivating STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) lessons to primary pupils has launched in Clackmannanshire and North Lanarkshire.
RAiSE (Raising Aspirations in Science Education), Clackmannanshire Council and North Lanarkshire Council have appointed a Primary Science Development Officers (PSDOs) to develop and deliver professional learning, create STEM networks and organise community events.
RAiSE is a programme of The Wood Foundation, Education Scotland, Scottish Government and participating local authorities.
John Cochrane, RAiSE PSDO in North Lanarkshire, said:
“In North Lanarkshire, we are committed to ensuring that all primary pupils have the opportunities to benefit from lessons which create the bedrock upon which later learning and, eventually, work will be based upon. STEM is a vitally important component to develop creative thinkers and problem solvers.
“Professional learning is key to increasing confidence. As a teacher myself, I understand the pressures we face in delivering a varied curriculum with a number of different drivers and priorities to strive towards. Rather than viewing STEM as an add-on, I will be working with teachers to develop opportunities which make STEM a vehicle to address existing goals in a way that really excites and engages learners.”
Lorraine Sanda, Improving Outcomes Manager in Clackmannanshire, said:
“I am delighted that we have been given the opportunity to take part in this programme and grateful to the Wood Foundation for their support. This is an exciting time in STEM education and our participation with RAiSE will allow us to address the wider priorities for a consistent and progressive STEM education that will benefit all children and young people from Early level through to Secondary. As Clackmannanshire looks forward to its City Region Deal, we want to ensure that we are preparing our children and young people for the opportunities that this will bring in their own area.”
An external report into the success of the pilot element of the programme earlier this year found that three quarters of teachers were more confident in their science teaching following involvement with the programme. The same figure stated that pupils’ STEM career aspirations had also increased.
For more information on the RAiSE programme, visit https://www.thewoodfoundation.org.uk/developing-young-people-in-scotland/raise/ or email gayle.duffus@educationscotland.gov.scot