A programme which empowers teachers with the confidence and skills to deliver inspiring and motivating STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) learning experiences for primary pupils has launched in West Lothian.
RAiSE (Raising Aspirations in Science Education) and West Lothian Council have seconded a Primary Science Development Officer (PSDO) to develop and deliver professional learning, create STEM networks, and organise community events for the authority’s schools.
RAiSE is a programme of The Wood Foundation, Education Scotland, Scottish Government and participating local authorities. West Lothian is the 15th region to embark upon the programme. It has delivered more than 50,000 hours of professional learning to teachers since 2016. Executive
Nicola Connor, RAiSE PSDO in West Lothian, said:
“In West Lothian, we are committed to ensuring that all primary pupils have opportunities to benefit from learning experiences 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.”
West Lothian’s Executive Councillor for Education, David Dodds, said:
“We are excited to be engaging with the RAiSE programme. It will support the local authority STEM strategy, enhancing the confidence and skills of primary school practitioners to improve learning and teaching in STEM education.
“It aims to raise attainment and achievement in primary science and STEM and tackle inequity and inequality in learners’ experiences and in their potential to achieve. This will lead to our young people in West Lothian being STEM- equipped and confident in contributing to the workforce of the future.”
Follow @WL_STEM on twitter or email nicola.connor@westlothian.gov.uk for more information.