Session one How the PSQM scheme works

The Primary Science Quality Mark TM is an award scheme to develop and celebrate the quality of science teaching and learning in primary schools. Schools can achieve bronze, silver and gold awards.

Aims 1.To raise the profile of science in primary schools 2.To encourage primary schools to increase the range and quality of teaching and learning in science 3.To recognise, promote and spread good practice in science teaching and learning 4.To provide a framework for evaluating, planning and developing the quality of science teaching and learning in primary schools. 5.To celebrate a commitment to excellence in science in primary schools

The Story So Far….. Draft criteria established and programme piloted National roll out began 2011 supported by the Wellcome Trust Ofsted validation PSQM awards made onwards supported by partnership of University of Hertfordshire and the AstraZeneca Science Teaching Trust 80+ PSQM hubs established across UK

Ofsted inspectors identify the Primary Science Quality Mark as an important mechanism for bringing about improvement in primary science Inspectors’ interviews with staff in the schools that participated in the initiative confirmed the improvements in teachers’ confidence and ability to teach science, with a consequent positive impact not only on pupils’ performance but also on their engagement and enjoyment. The initiative has shown how strongly motivated professionals in science education can work with science-based industry and other agencies to promote higher standards in science education. Ofsted 2012

8 The PSQM calendar (Schools Spring Cohort) The Primary Science Quality Mark Calendar- schools By April By end of April By end of May Nov or December By end of March Oct / Nov Initial PD session Audit of current practice against PSQM criteria Complete action plan. Upload to PSQM web site Implement action plan. Evidence collection ongoing Second PD session for schools Submit reflections with supporting evidence Award ceremony Mentoring

9 Managing your time

PSQM self evaluation framework Science subject leadership Teachers and teaching Pupils and learning Wider opportunities The Scheme

Schools achieve a Primary Science Quality Mark award through a process of initial audit, followed by action and reflection. Supported by compulsory training and mentoring they: complete an initial audit against Primary Science Quality Mark criteria; decide which award to aim for; design an action plan which they put into place over a period of terms; submit key pieces of evidence to support their submission for the selected award and to illustrate the impact that their actions have had whilst working towards the achievement of the PSQM award criteria. The Process

Website – Subject leader’s view

Using the PSQM Website

What does the Primary Science Quality Mark look like? GOLD AWARD The subject leader ensures that excellent practice is visible, sustained and evolving across the whole school. This excellent practice has a clear impact on partners beyond the school. SILVER AWARD The subject leader is having an increasing impact across the school, where science has a high profile. Many excellent practices are developed and implemented. Some links with partners outside the school are being established. BRONZE AWARD The subject leader is beginning to have an impact beyond his/her own class and the profile of science is growing across the school. Some excellent practices are being developed and implemented. PSQM SILVER PSQM GOLD PSQM Bronze

15 Gap Task! Complete your self-assessment before the next session, and make notes on things you may need to complete to reach an award. Hold a staff meeting to run the Principles of Science activity.