News | Dec 18, 2024

Reflecting on 2024: A year of achievements and growth with a new strategy in full swing

As we prepare to step into the new year, we’re taking a moment to reflect on the incredible milestones achieved in 2024. At PSTT, our mission is to empower and support primary science educators, and this year has been no exception. Here are some of the highlights from an impactful year:

 

Expanding our Regional Mentor network

We’ve strengthened our commitment to regional support by expanding our Regional Mentor Programme in the North of England and West Midlands. We were thrilled to welcome five exceptional new mentors to the team. Their expertise and dedication are already making a tangible impact on the communities they serve. Learn more about our Regional Mentor Programme

 

Promoting children’s engagement with science

Through our Primary Science Capital Teaching Approach (PSCTA) course, we’ve supported educators in fostering children’s engagement and identification with science. This innovative approach continues to inspire teachers to create meaningful connections between science and their pupils’ lives. Stay current with courses by joining our mailing list

 

Supporting science leaders across the UK

This year, we successfully launched our Science Leadership Webinar Series, providing invaluable support to teachers who inspire and educate thousands of children. The series has fostered a community of science leaders who are better equipped to make a difference in their schools and beyond. Registration is still open with access to previous sessions

 

Advancing science education in Priority Areas

This year marked the successful completion of the first year of our Priority Areas Initiative, which focuses on addressing educational inequities. Partnering with 30 schools across Edmonton, Medway, and the North Thames Estuary, we’ve made strides in enhancing science learning for children in these regions. We will be sharing more information on Priority Areas in the new year.

 

Celebrating Explorify’s success

Explorify had a standout year in 2024, winning two major awards: the prestigious BETT Award and the Teach Primary Awards. Additionally, it was recognised in the Teacher Tapp Awards, further cementing its place as a beloved resource for teachers. These accolades reflect Explorify’s impact in making science more accessible, engaging, and inspiring for pupils across the UK. Discover what Explorify has to offer

 

Recognising exceptional student teachers

Over the summer, 106 student teachers from 25 Initial Teacher Education (ITE) providers across the UK earned this year’s Primary Science Enhancement Award. Among this year’s recipients, four were Early Career Teachers supported by The Ogden Trust.

 

2024 marks the third consecutive year of this initiative, and we hope to see even more participants in the next academic year. Find out more and express your interest if you’re an ITE provider

 

Delivering free, high-quality resources

We continue to release free termly issues of Why&How?, providing educators with fresh, practical ideas to support science teaching and learning. Explore Why&How?

 

Collaborating for a sustainable future

In partnership with SSERC, we helped launch the Inspiring a Sustainable Approach to STEM programme. This initiative empowers educators to incorporate sustainability into their teaching, inspiring the next generation to think critically about their impact on the planet. Read more in SSERC’s 2024 Annual Report, pp. 24-7

 

Celebrating excellence at the College Conference

We ended the year on a high note with an outstanding College Conference, where we officially welcomed five new Fellows to the College. These educators have demonstrated exceptional dedication to primary science teaching. Find out more and nominate an outstanding teacher

 

As we celebrate these successes, we remain focused on what’s next. 2025 promises to be another exciting year, with plenty of new initiatives and events to support primary science education across the UK.

 

Thank you to all the educators, partners, and supporters who made 2024 such an impactful year. Together, we’re shaping the future of primary science education—one classroom at a time.