By Dravit Koorichh

In May 2021, Avanti House Primary School was thrilled to be one of the 334 schools across the country to be awarded the nationally recognised Primary Science Quality Mark (PSQM) GILT award 2021.

In 2019, Avanti House Primary School decided to apply for the PSQM to align with their vision of helping each child become a well-rounded human being by giving them a holistic education through connections to the natural world and the community. Primary Science Quality Mark (PSQM) is the only national award scheme to develop and celebrate the quality of science teaching and learning in primary schools. Schools achieve a PSQM through a year-long process of initial audit, followed by action and evidenced-based reflection. Due to the global pandemic, a process which should have taken a year, took 18 months to finish.

The PSQM programme ensures effective leadership of science, enabling schools to work together to share good practice, supported by professional development led by local experts. It encourages teacher autonomy and innovation while at the same time offering a clear framework for development in science subject leadership, teaching and learning. Schools that achieve PSQM demonstrate commitment and expertise in science leadership, teaching and learning.

Associate Professor Jane Turner, PSQM National Director said: “There was never a more important time for primary children to have a high-quality science education. The Coronavirus Pandemic has made everyone aware of the impact of science on our daily lives. Primary schools have an important role to ensure that children understand how science works and keeps us healthy and safe. Schools that have achieved a Primary Science Quality Mark have demonstrated a significant commitment to science teaching and learning, even at this challenging time for schools. The profile and quality of science in each awarded school is very high. Children are engaging with great science both in and outside the classroom, developing positive attitudes towards science as well as secure scientific understanding and skills. Science subject leaders, their colleagues, head teachers, children, parents and governors should be very proud.”

Special recognition was paid towards Mrs Pant (whole school science lead)  for placing ‘Science on the map’ for our community.

PSQM Evidence

The Science Lead at Avanti House Primary School made a portfolio of evidence to showcase some of the amazing scientific opportunities that the children at Avanti House Primary School have experienced throughout the last year! This is what Ed Walsh Senior Regional Hub Leader PSQM had to say –

‘Well done! It has been a very challenging time to prepare a PSQM submission, reflecting on the progress made using plans made in a different time. Your portfolio demonstrated a vibrant type of science and supported your reflections well. You have plans for future action and an honest style that demonstrates a professional approach that will ensure science continues to develop. Many congratulations to everyone at Avanti House, on all that has been achieved. This is well deserved.’

Here are some pictures of the PSQM portfolio submission: