About the Primary Science Enhancement Programme

The PSEP is aimed at teachers in UK Primary schools. It encourages the use of an industrial context to enhance pupils' work into Scientific Enquiry. Pupils are encouraged to explore their own ideas, plan and perform an investigation. A visit to a local manufacturing company links their activities with the application of science in an industrial setting.

Investigations tackle real problems that are encountered within science-based industries. This process reflects more closely the way science is carried out in "real life" and the approach improves children's motivation and understanding.

Industrial links, such as a site visit or guest speaker, benefit the children who are exposed to the range of roles and career opportunities available within the manufacturing industry. Often teachers also gain from exposure to work in an industrial setting. The project is based on the CIEC's successful Children Challenging Industry project and research showed that many teachers had little experience of industry before participating in the programme.

Professional development of staff is an integral part of PSEP. The diagram below outlines the activities undertaken by participants in the programme.

Training for PSEP is delivered in two layers. Regional trainers deliver to school Science co-ordinators over an initial two day programme and then remain as a point of support within their region. Following completion of the initial training, Science co-ordinators deliver training to staff within their schools and provide support for participating classroom teachers. A degree of flexibility is built into this element of the programme so that Science co-ordinators can tailor the training they deliver to suit the needs of their school.

Regional trainers also deliver a half-day training course to industrial partners involved in the programme.

For more information contact Joy Parvin, PSEP Director, via the contacts page