Do you have Early Career Teachers (ECTs) in your department? If so, supporting them with targeted, high-quality professional development is essential. One fantastic opportunity is the Summer School for ECTs teaching 11–16 Science, taking place on 21st–22nd July. You can find out more here: https://www.stem.org.uk/cpd/539393/summer-school-ects-teaching-11-16-science.
This two-day event will explore key misconceptions, as well as substantive and disciplinary knowledge across all three sciences at Key Stage 3 and 4, including how to develop progression through the key stages.
As subject leads, we play a crucial role in supporting those new to the profession. I was fortunate to attend the STEM Learning Primary ECT conference recently and left feeling inspired and optimistic about the future of Science teaching. The day was hands-on, engaging, and expertly led by trainers Sarah and Tanya. As with all courses at the National STEM centre in York, attendees left full of ideas to take straight back to the classroom — a consistent theme of feedback, whether from ECTs or experienced teachers.
During the day, I spoke with Hannah and Tallulah, primary ECTs who were clearly inspired by their experience at the National STEM centre. They told me:
“Really useful practical ideas”
“It’s tailored to ECTs which is good, it’s at our level”
“It’s good to come out of school”
Both were keen to put their learning into immediate action:
“I’m going to do hands-on experiments next week”
“I have gained knowledge and confidence to try (hands-on activities) in school”
“It’s given me more ideas to what you can do (in the classroom)”
They also spoke about the positive impact on their students:
“It will widen what they will do, and increase exposure to new vocabulary”
“We’re very hands-on in Early Years, but realise we need to keep it this way through school”
Importantly, they saw the value of sharing what they had learned with colleagues:
“I will tell the headteacher what we’ve done, and will be sharing with everyone”
Allowing your ECTs to attend targeted, high-quality CPD not only supports their professional development but also boosts their confidence, builds their teaching repertoire, and helps them to stay motivated.
In a busy Science department, a fresh burst of enthusiasm and practical ideas is always welcome — and investing in ECTs is an investment in the future of Science education.