Association for Science Education's Autumn Conference: Engaging Science in a Changing World

The Association for Science Education's annual northern conference is fast approaching! One of the best aspects of the ASE is the opportunity to network with other professionals who share your passion and enthusiasm for science education; to find out what others are doing and to consider how that might work for your own setting.  Naturally we are disappointed that this year, the Northern Conference will not be taking place in the format that we have grown to know and love.  However – we are delighted to be bringing you the Autumn Conference – online.  Our theme – Engaging Science in a Changing World seeks to address the challenges that many of us are currently facing, with sessions for educators whatever phase they work in and whatever their experience level.

For primary colleagues – we have sessions dedicated to early years: Puppets, play and practical science in EYFS; building science from the beginning and science capital from EYFS to Y6.  We have sessions that will provide strategies for current teaching challenges – Teaching primary science outdoors and Practical science in a bubble or for those looking to combine science with other subjects – there’s Six books to read, sixty activities to do.  We are also considering diversity in the primary science classroom and transition, progression and inclusion. For secondary colleagues – those at the start of their careers and looking for inspiration or guidance there’s: From Science club to scheme of work delivery, developing as an NQT/RQT and Supporting exam classes as an NQT. For hose keen to find strategies to help with closing the gap and coping back in school – there’s Best evidence science teaching – an update on this valuable tool for identifying and addressing misconceptions; the Implications from the Great Teaching Toolkit’ evidence review and Applying positive psychology to promote health and wellbeing and resilience in school settings.  With scientific literacy linked to attainment ‘using books as a secondary science stimulus’ looks at which books might be used and how. Enriching the curriculum through the use of STEM ambassadors has never been easier – now we can access virtual visitors from a much wider region or more important in engaging students. Last but by no means least – CLEAPPS present a way of making practical more manageable – with Microscale chemistry and how it can be used (now and beyond Covid). Some sessions are appropriate for both primary and secondary – such as Applying positive psychology to school settings; KS2-3 Transition; Using STEM ambassadors; Using books as a stimulus for science and Implications from Great Teaching toolkit: Evidence review.  We hope you will be spoilt for choice with the session options. Sessions have been designed to allow the opportunities for questions and reflection and we will wrap up the day with a chance to determine our next steps and a prize raffle. For further details and booking, visit the ASE's website