Project Science programme
Giving students the opportunity to 'do science' – where they conduct genuine investigations and make their own decisions – transforms both learning and teaching. While most students learn about scientific concepts, few get to experience authentic scientific inquiry beyond following practical recipes.
The Project Science programme addresses barriers that prevent teachers from incorporating genuine investigative work into their science teaching. Its skill training lessons and project briefs provides all the support you need develop student independence while working within the constraints of content-heavy curriculum.
Project Science can be used to prepare students for end-of-year investigations, Project Qualifications (HPQ/EPQ), science competitions, or extended research in science clubs.
Register for the next webinar
Attend the Project Science webinar on Wednesday 15th October 4-4.30pm (repeated Tuesday 21 7-7.30pm) to understand how the programme works in practice, get access to the resources > Register for the webinar
Skills development
Building investigative competence requires systematic skill development. Our skills roadmap breaks down complex investigative abilities into manageable steps that can be integrated throughout your existing curriculum. The accompanying lesson resources provide engaging activities that progressively develop students' capabilities, moving from basic techniques to the sophisticated thinking skills needed for independent investigation. > See Skills development
Project support
When students are ready for their first independent investigation, structured support helps ensure success. Our project briefs cover diverse topics designed to capture student interest while providing appropriate scaffolding. Each brief guides students through the investigative process while maintaining authentic decision-making opportunities. >See Project support
Project Qualifications
Project Science is an ideal programme to get students accredited for their project work through a Higher Project Qualification (HPQ). HPQ is designed to develop valuable research and independent learning skills, and allows students to pursue topics that interest them. >See Project Qualifications.
Pilot the programme
Join the select group of pilot schools who are trying out this innovative approach to science education. Pilot schools receive complete access to all resources, professional development support, and are contributing to research on how 'doing science' in the curriculum influences students' interest and career aspirations. > See Pilot the programme
Research Evidence
Existing research demonstrates that authentic project experiences increase student interest and the likelihood of students choosing science subjects post-16, particularly among those studying combined science. >See Research evidence
Our supporters
Project Science was designed with help from Pearson, and is supported by the Royal Academy of Engineering and Open University.
FAQ
Q: How does Project Science complement GCSE?
A: While GCSE Science teaches isolated skills and practical techniques, Project Science develops the capability to independently design and carry out complete science investigations and engineering challenges - the authentic scientific thinking that transforms students' understanding.
Q: Can Project Science improve students' GCSE performance?
A: Yes. Students develop deeper understanding of 'Working Scientifically' principles and are likely to improve on GCSE questions related to practical investigations and data analysis.