| 'The National Strategy - Level 6 and Beyond'
We look forward to this new year with the prospect of a number of exciting new initiatives.
The National Strategy ‘Reinforcement of Level 6 and Beyond’ is now available online and will provide a focus upon the skills that pupils need to access if they are to succeed in science. The initiative is aimed at moving Level 5 pupils to Level 6 at KS3 and those pupils at KS2 who gained Levels 4 and 5, who should achieve Level 6 at KS3 and A*-B at GCSE.
Go online, click on- ‘Course content’ – ‘Progressing to Level 6 and beyond in science module’ and finally ‘Launch.’ You will be presented with a virtual school. Enter the site via the ‘Local School’ button and this will allow you to navigate a route through a selection of Laboratories and resource rooms.
- Lab A focuses upon scientific models, understanding misconceptions and scientific writing. The ‘Scientific steps table’ identifies a pupil’s present characteristics and the strategies in assisting with pupil progress through four steps of progression. Resources include interactive PowerPoints, videos and worksheets focussing upon scientific terminology and language skills.
- Lab B focuses upon How Science Works (HSW), effective group talk and developing research skills.
- Lab C provides the opportunity for teacher training on HSW.
- The video room is ideal for staff INSET with a large selection of videos where teachers are seen tackling a number of challenging scientific areas including modelling and language skills.
- The staffroom stores resources along with a self-assessment tool.
- The CPD room also provides resources along with hyperlinks to the Science Learning Centre and National Strategies websites.
- The subject leader room highlights the resources available to assist with the writing of the department development plan and finally the senior leader’s room focuses upon the school improvement plan and the rationale of improving teaching and learning.
The National Strategy ‘Level 6 and Beyond’ resources will provide the Heads of Department with an ideal tool for implementing clear improvement strategies for the future with a clear focus upon improving teaching and learning in science.
Graham Farrall
Head of Faculty of Science
Cleeve Park School | 
