Ofsted report on science in primary and secondary schools

7 January 2011

Commenting on the Ofsted report ‘Successful science’, Christine Blower, General Secretary of the National Union of Teachers the largest teachers’ union said;

“This report highlights yet again the case NUT has been making for getting rid of Key Stage 2 tests in English and maths.

“Oftsed makes it quite clear that removing statutory tests in science at Key Stage 2 and 3 has actually improved science teaching. The report says that when teachers are no longer restrained by endless revision and teaching to the test lessons are far more exciting and innovative which obviously would be the case with all subjects.

“Introducing science into primary schools has been a huge success despite it being much less likely for there to be either science equipment/ facilities in primary schools compared to secondary schools. Continuing funding for practical work in both primary and secondary schools will be a challenge for many schools as budgets are cut.

“To ensure a level playing field between primary and secondary schools there does need to be, as Ofsted points out, far greater access to science specific CPD for primary school teachers who are less likely to have a science background. Greater flexibility in the primary curriculum in order to focus more time on science would similarly have a significant impact on results.

“For all lessons to be as relevant, informative and fun as Ofsted says science lessons are, the Government needs to trust teachers to get on with teaching and remove the dead hand of Government with its imposition of endless floor targets, league tables and SATs”.

Ofsted report on science in schools

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