Coaching Primary Science Scholars to Success (CPSSS)

The project provided primary teachers with subject specific professional development to improve their subject and pedagogical content knowledge of science in the new National Curriculum and sustain their learning through performance and instructional coaching.

Professional development was provided by primary science consultants through face-to-face teaching, the provision of online resources and bespoke visits to schools. Independent and school-centred Professional Learning Communities were created to provide on-going support, dialogue and learning between all teachers via triad coaching, observation and review.

The evaluation found that the capacity and capability for teaching science in primary schools has risen and teachers’ subject knowledge, self-confidence and the effectiveness of their science teaching practices has improved. There has been a very positive impact on pupils’ interest, engagement and scientific experience.

Throughout the course I’ve enjoyed the “wonder” of it and being less controlling [with the children’s investigations]