programmes for extended schools

If your school is in the process of developing an action plan as part of the extended schools scheme, we believe that this scheme represents an important opportunity to develop enriched science provision for your pupils as well as engaging your community of parents in family learning opportunities.

As an example of science enrichment, we would like to suggest the following activities:

1) after-school science shows for pupils (and parents) to enrich the curriculum

– a series of interactive shows from our exisiting school programmes could be built into the delivery of science throughout your school to run over up to 6 sessions. The typical cost for an after-school session consisting of a KS 1 show (30 mins) and KS 2 show (60 mins) would be £199.

2) evening science show and workshop sessions for families

– an interactive science show with dramatic demonstrations and lots of audience participation; followed by a hands-on session in which family groups can explore together in a supportive environment. We have found that using the natural interest that most children have for hands-on science activities is an excellent way of engaging their parents who may feel less confident about science. The cost to provide the family show and workshop would be £250 (includes travel time and costs; set-up and take-down; performance; and consumables).

3) Summer scheme programmes - offering a series of morning or afternoon interactive science sessions.

These enrichment activities could be integrated with other science education activities taking place within the school. Baseline information about the interest and confidence of pupils and parents to science could be gathered through short questionnaires before the project starts.

The anticipated outputs of the project would include:

- Pupil understanding of curriculum science topics increased through science enrichment activities.

- Increased pupil interest and motivation in science.

- Increased parental confidence to engage with science and to support their children in learning science at school and in the home.

- Increased parental awareness of the importance of families learning together.

Please don’t hesitate to get in touch if you would like to discuss any aspect of these programmes.