Publishing hat-trick for Education graduates

The articles were based around the theme ‘Starting Out’. Alex focused on ‘Things they don’t tell you in training’, Claire, on ‘How TV brings science to life’ and Jill, on ‘Confidence Matters’.

Rob Bowker, a Primary Education Science expert from the University of Exeter said, ‘To have their work published in such a widely read journal that receives contributions from a range of professionals is a great achievement. The trainees’ articles are innovative, reflective and relevant to all those concerned in the process of raising the standard of primary science teaching.’

Whilst on their PGCE course, all primary science specialists are encouraged to produce work of a high standard to be published, based on reflection of their current practice and science expertise from previous careers and experience. 

Dr Claire Tocher is a qualified medical Doctor who is keen to spread her enthusiasm about learning and the importance of Science in our everyday lives.  She worked within the Science department of the BBC and during her PGCE used the opportunity to think about using the environment for cross-curricular learning. Alex Armitage has a Masters degree in Physics with Photonics and sees Science as a vehicle through which other core subjects can be taught. Dr Jill Cainey was an Atmospheric Research Scientist in Australia, but enjoyed her public education role so much she was inspired to retrain as a primary teacher. She chose to study at Exeter because it was the only institution in Australia, New Zealand or the UK that allowed a specialism in Science at the primary level.

All three are due to start their new professional careers as teachers in Redhill Primary, Telford, Woolacombe School, Woolacombe and in Sherston Primary School, Wiltshire.

Rob Bowker added, ‘Writing for Primary Science’ is now an integral part of the primary science specialist module and the success of Alex, Claire and Jill should be an inspiration for future trainees who are hoping to have their work published and be at the cutting edge of their chosen profession.’