Teachers from across the UK came to CLS for the first day of an Ogden Trust Subject Knowledge for Physics Teaching (SKPT) course, focusing on Forces.
The SKPT programme, fully funded by the Department for Education and delivered by The Ogden Trust, is a cornerstone of support for teachers who find themselves teaching physics outside of their primary specialism. In a subject where conceptual understanding and confident delivery are paramount, these courses offer a lifeline, equipping educators with enhanced subject knowledge and pedagogical approaches. Beyond the immediate subject knowledge, the SKPT courses foster a supportive network, creating a collaborative environment for ongoing professional growth. Teachers completing a module can also gain a Subject Knowledge Award from the Institute of Physics, further validating their enhanced expertise.
The impact of such training is far-reaching. The recent session at CLS saw twelve dedicated teachers in attendance. Considering each of these educators is likely to teach around 200 pupils, this single day of focused professional development has the potential to positively influence the learning experiences of approximately 2,400 young people across the UK.
Hosting Continuing Professional Development (CPD) like the SKPT course away from the participants’ own schools offers a unique advantage. It allows teachers to immerse themselves in their learning, free from the daily distractions and demands of their school environment. This dedicated time for reflection and skill acquisition is invaluable. Such partnerships between independent and state-maintained sectors are vital for raising the standard of science education for all pupils.
Thanks are due to our Director of Partnerships, Partnerships Officer and Physics Teachers for their contributions. A special mention must go Mr Khadaroo, our Senior Physics Technician, whose profound depth of knowledge and proactive assistance ensured that all practical elements of the ‘Forces’ module ran seamlessly. His expertise was instrumental in creating a rich and effective learning experience for all attendees.
We are looking forward to continuing our partnership with The Ogden Trust, working together to empower teachers and inspire the next generation of physicists.
