Back to Plan your Day 2020 – Dr Leigh Hoath – Primary Science – what is at the core? GSAL Futures Conference, 2022 Primary Workshop facilitator Dr Leigh Hoath Name of Workshop Primary Science – what is at the core? Who is it for Primary and secondary (particulary KS3) teachers Brief synopsis of workshop: This workshop will consider how the identity of science as a core subject has been challenged since the abolition of the SATS in 2009. We will look at how this is shifting again in light of the low status of science being recognised by bodies such as Ofsted. As well as considering where support for science learning and teaching can be found, this workshop will engage the participants in activities which highlight the importance of effective science lessons. It will challenge thinking as well as aiming to push science lovers on further and convert those who shy away from teaching it with enthusiasm. This workshop will offer a balance of activities, challenge and links with current thinking about how to improve the science experience for both teachers and learners. What you will get out of it: Increased confidence and ideas to support learning and teaching of science Profile of facilitator: Dr Leigh Hoath is a Senior Lecturer in Science Education at Leeds Trinity University. She is the Editor of the Association for Science Education’s Primary Science Journal and is a regular contributor of book chapters and journal publications as well as conferences in the UK and internationally. After teaching in two Leeds’ schools, Leigh moved into Higher Education and has led science education in 2 institutions across the primary and secondary age phases. She also worked for Manchester University running primary science CPD for in-service teachers as well as Cluster projects uniting primary and secondary schools in interrogation of working scientifically and developing better practice. In addition to her current role at LTU Leigh works as the education outreach expert for BASF, the world’s largest chemical company, developing opportunities for schools to visit their local sites and undertake activities which support the national curriculum and identified needs within the area. She also acted as the education consultant for the BBC Blue Planet Live Lesson and associated resources. Leigh is a Primary Science Quality Mark hub leader, organiser of the Leeds BrewEd events, an avid reader and mum to twins. Twitter @leighhoath Website and Blogs
