We’re excited to announce the launch of our new Primary Science Core Provision Programmes for 2025/26, designed specifically to support science leaders across Hampshire.

These in-person programmes will help you:

• stay informed on national developments, recent reports, and the latest research in primary science
• take part in professional discussions on effective teaching practices
• share and learn from peers through collaborative networking.

Choose from seven district programmes, each including three network sessions and a half-day conference. Sessions start in mid-June, so enrol now to secure your dates!

Cost: Sub: £420 / Full: £490 / HIAS SLA element: £155 (includes all the elements above)

Important update: This offer replaces our previous termly network sessions. If you’ve already booked a summer term network, your booking has now been cancelled. Please rebook onto one of the new Core Programmes.

Visit our Science courses Moodle page for further information and booking guidance.

Free learning resources for teachers from the RHS:

https://schoolgardening.rhs.org.uk/home

Free seeds:

https://home.38degrees.org.uk/2023/02/07/seeds-for-bees-frequently-asked-questions/

About halfway down the page, you'll find a link to request additional seeds for schools and community projects. The selection includes a variety of easy-to-grow plants, perfect for children, especially the sunflowers.

Free trees:

https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/plant-trees/schools-and-communities

SLIME

Prior to 2025 primary aged children could make slime using eyewash solution. 

Due to a change in the Hazard classification of boron compounds, such as borax, manufacturers have removed these which means it is no longer possible to make slime in this way.

CLEAPSS have developed two slime-like substances that can be used instead and here are the safety guidelines for each:

PVA slime

Safety 

• children must not put the slime or any of the substances used in this activity near their mouths

• wash hands with soap and water at the end of the activity

• the slime must be thrown away at the end of the activity

• slime cannot be taken home.

Xanthan gum slime 

Safety 

• children must not put the slime or any of the substances used in this activity near their mouths

• wash hands with soap and water at the end of the activity

• the water temperature must not exceed 50 °C

• the slime must be thrown away at the end of the activity

• slime cannot be taken home.

To find these activities and safety guidance on CLEAPSS, visit https://primary.cleapss.org.uk/Resource/P042-Slime-time.aspx 

You will need to use your new log in to access these resources.

The primary aims of the subject network meetings are to: 

• Ensure a clear understanding of the national picture and its application in local and school contexts. 
• Support effective subject leadership as appropriate to each school’s individual context. 
• Develop skills, expertise and capacity within school subject leaders and their teams through quality strategic CPD and the sharing of good practice. 
• Deepen understanding of subject specific pedagogy and knowledge that underpins good progress and attainment for ALL pupils. 
• Facilitate school to school networking and develop strength across the system. 

Summer 1:

Date: 21 May 2025 (Webinar)
Search and book on the Learning Zone using keyword search: Summer Science Webinar
Price: Sub £55 / SLA £40 / Full £66

Summer 2:

Date: 2 July 2025
Search and book on the Learning Zone using keyword search: Summer 2 Science 
Price: Sub £75 / SLA £40 / Full £90