Outwood Primary Academy Woodlands has been awarded the Primary Science Quality Mark (PSQM) after successfully evidencing the strength of their science curriculum.

Feedback from the review included many positive comments about the school’s approach to teaching and learning science, with the reviewer noting: ‘It is clear that through the new vision and principles, the children are at the centre of science development at Woodlands. The subject leader has a clear focus on science capital and wanting the children to see Science as relevant in their lives now and in the future.’

Paul Williams, Science Lead at the school, said:

“We are thrilled to receive the PSQM! This award reflects the hard work of staff across the whole school in our pursuit to provide our children with a science curriculum of the highest quality.

“Our children love the practical elements of science, so we particularly enjoyed extending the curriculum, to hold STEM workshops as well as an enrichment club that parents could participate in with their children. We are especially proud of the feedback from the accreditation panel, as reflecting on our journey so far allows us to look forward to where we can continue to take science in the future.”

The report also praised the school’s STEMfest initiative, commenting: ‘With initiatives such as STEMfest, the children’s imaginations have been truly captured. They have expressed their love of meeting STEM representatives and meeting other children who enjoy Science just like them!’

PSQM is a comprehensive evidence-based professional development programme that effectively develops science leadership, ensuring teachers have the knowledge, capability and support they need to transform science education and shape future generations. 

The Primary Science Quality Mark is led by the University of Hertfordshire.

Helen Sizer, PSQM Co-Director, said:

“By enabling effective science leadership, PSQM is powering the potential of all children to see the relevance and importance of science in their lives, now and in the future. Schools that have achieved a Primary Science Quality Mark have demonstrated a significant commitment to science leadership, teaching and learning and the profile and quality of science in each accredited school is very high. Science subject leaders, their colleagues, headteachers, children, parents and governors should be very proud.”