Partnerships in action
"The conference was an incredible opportunity for science leads to come together to share ideas, experiences and most of all, feel immensely valued!"
Published: 20 July 2023
“The conference was an incredible opportunity for science leads to come together to share ideas, experiences and most of all, feel immensely valued! I loved being able to learn from others and share my own knowledge to support others. The conference was, and always is, a celebration of science (physics in particular) and the people who are driving this subject forward across the nation – something The Ogden Trust should be very, very proud of.”
More than 180 teachers and colleagues joined us for regional partnership conferences in June and July to learn from expert practitioners and to share ideas, enthusiasm and expertise. Each conference provided a busy, two-day programme with a local vibe, which gave delegates the opportunity to hear from inspirational keynote speakers and presenters, and to get hands-on with workshops and activities.
The conference programmes were full of fascinating presentations that generated rich discussions and food for thought, including the power of storytelling, geophysics and inclusive science teaching; delegates were even asked “What is the point of physics?”
Workshops encouraged teachers to get hands on as they explored the wow, how and the now of physics in the classroom, and learnt about science ambassadors and physics education research, to mention just a few of the topics covered. Case studies (and posters) from across the regions showcased local events and activities that are all helping our partnerships to make physics matter.
The conferences provided a valuable opportunity for programme managers at the Trust to share tips, tricks and requirements for partnership planning, management and reporting. The school partnership co-ordinators were also able to meet with their local regional reps to talk about ideas, issues and opportunities specific to their local areas.
“It was fantastic to bring our partnerships together for these regional conferences,” says Wendy Cox, Head of Education for the Trust. “The networking, the sharing and the conversations created a real enthusiasm which was a pleasure to witness and to be part of.”
“The partnership team at the Trust worked incredibly hard to bring inspirational speakers to each of these conferences and to give practical advice, support and ideas which can be used directly in the classroom,” continues Wendy. “We also wanted the events to celebrate the achievements and continued commitment of our partnership co-ordinators; we hope they enjoyed the food and facilities on offer as another busy school year comes to an end.”
“Just a massive thank you to everyone involved in organising the conference. An amazing event. I have come away buzzing with ideas! Thank you!!”
“The CPD sessions were really focused and really impactful. Simple little activities like using playdoh to model electrical circuits blow my mind – I’ve already placed my shopping order and have been telling everyone who will listen!”
“Such a good buzz around education! I honestly think it is events like this that keep me going as a teacher in the classroom.”
“The conference was amazing! I’ve never attended an event like it and I loved being around so many people who are passionate about teaching physics.”
Ogden school partnerships
The Ogden School Partnerships programme provides five years of funding, support and CPD for schools who want to work together to enhance the teaching and learning of physics. Applications for new partnerships open each year between September and February.
You can find out more by visiting the partnership pages on this website