Key Stage 3 - opportunity knocks

According to Robin Millar, University of York, 'For some time there has been concern about the teaching and learning of science at Key Stage 3, with research showing clearly that students' attitudes to science begin to wane between the ages of 11-14 in contrast to other subjects, which have a better outlook, and crucially this is the time students make serious career decisions'. Millar was speaking at a seminar, Teaching and learning science at Key Stage 3, organised by the Chemical Education Group (CEG) of the Salters' Institute of Industrial Chemistry, in London, in February.  

Addressing science at Key Stage 3

The new programme of study at Key Stage 3, coupled with the fact that the Government has recently shelved the mandatory tests at this key stage, presents teachers and educationalists with an opportunity to address the curriculum for this cohort to ensure that not only are students switched on to science at this age but they want to pursue science subjects into further education and employment.