Primary Academies in West Yorkshire receive Science Quality Award
Bradford based academies receive Primary Science Quality Mark (PSQM)
Shibden Head Primary Academy and Wilsden Primary School have received the PSQM GILT and PSQM accreditations respectively, for demonstrating their commitment to excellence in science teaching and learning.
These national accreditations were awarded to the schools in recognition of their effective leadership in science, successful teacher autonomy and innovation, development into science teaching and learning, and good practice shared with other schools within the region.
This year long continued professional development programme has helped the schools grow on their already successful science programmes.
In feedback, Shibden Head was celebrated for its brave modern approaches to learning using floor book and pupil-led methods, whilst Wilsden was praised for its development and collaborative efforts in making science a core subject across the school.
In September, both schools hope to further enhance their science offering and will be encouraging parents and staff to get involved with pupils in initiatives such as the Great Science Share.
The schools are amongst 160 schools from across the country who have received this prestigious accreditation.
Associate Professor Jane Turner, PSQM National Director said: “Schools that have achieved a Primary Science Quality Mark have demonstrated a significant commitment to science teaching and learning, even at this challenging time for schools.
“Children are engaging with great science both in and outside the classroom, developing positive attitudes towards science as well as secure scientific understanding and skills.
“Science subject leaders, their colleagues, head teachers, children, parents and governors should be very proud.”
Sarah Thornton, headteacher of Shibden Head Primary Academy commented: “Over the last few years our science curriculum has become embedded throughout the school and to be re-accredited with this award shows the continued commitment of our teachers, staff, pupil and parents.
“I would like to give particular thanks to Emma Plows and Emily Rankin who led on this project and through what has been a tremendously difficult year have once again helped ensure our science teaching and pupil learning remains exemplary.”
Mandy Heppinstall Science Lead at Wilsden Primary School added: “We are delighted to have been awarded the PSQM award and to have strengthened our approach to science across all year groups throughout this school year.
“Since the start of the lockdown period our staff, pupils and parents have adapted to new ways of working and this is really a testament to everyone’s hard work, I look forward to welcoming everyone back in September and championing this achievement further in the new academic year.”
Shibden Head Primary Academy and Wilsden Primary School both operate as part of Focus Trust – a charitable multi-academy trust which is based in the North West of England with a vision of providing an engaging and challenging learning environment where the children are happy.
Find out more about the PSQM at http://www.psqm.org.uk/.
