Primary science,September 2003

Science became a compulsory subject in all state primary schools in England in 1989. There is general agreement that considerable progress has been made since then and government now views primary science education to be a success. There is also, however, concern outside government that advances made in the early years are in danger of being lost.

Issues discussed include: how schools can both develop pupils’ interest in science and prepare them for secondary school; the balance needed between teaching factual knowledge and the skills of scientific enquiry; the effects of the SATs tests; and the importance of teachers’ scientific knowledge and confidence.