TWO schools in Barrow have been awarded a prestigious mark for their commitment to quality science teaching.

283 Primary Science Quality Marks have been awarded to infant, junior, primary, middle and special schools to celebrate their commitment to excellence in science teaching and learning.

Yarlside Academy and Parkside Academy, both members of Furness Education Trust, along with Furness Academy and Victoria Academy, have been awarded the top level GILT Quality Mark for their commitment to quality science teaching.

The board of reviewers recognised how the supportive nature of Furness Education Trust has allowed for the development of science in the schools and created a collaborative approach to teaching.

They said: “The collaboration across the trust has had a positive impact on teaching.

"Science teaching has clearly been strengthened and developed from an already confident baseline.

"Staff work with others in the trust to share best practice which demonstrates a school-wide commitment to continually improving.

"The trust has strong links with external visitors, businesses and trips are used to enrich the curriculum in normal times."

The Primary School Quality Mark programme ensures effective leadership of science, enables schools to work together to share good practice and is supported by professional development led by local experts.

It encourages teacher autonomy and innovation, while at the same time offering a clear framework for development in science subject leadership, teaching and learning.

Schools that achieve PSQM demonstrate commitment and expertise in science leadership, teaching and learning.

Chief executive officer of Furness Education Trust, Simon Laheney, said: “I am proud of our schools for achieving this quality mark.

"One of the key aims of our trust is develop collaborative working for the benefit of all students across our primary schools, creating that seamless curriculum which we aspire to.

"I am pleased that the Primary Science Quality Mark reviewers have recognised the work of our schools in delivering an exceptional science curriculum to our students”.

The Primary Science Quality Mark is led by the University of Hertfordshire, School of Education in collaboration with the Primary Science Teaching Trust.

Associate Professor Jane Turner, PSQM national director, said: “There was never a more important time for primary children to have a high-quality science education.

"The coronavirus pandemic has made everyone aware of the impact of science on our daily lives.

"Primary schools have an important role to ensure that children understand how science works and keeps us healthy and safe.

"Schools that have achieved a Primary Science Quality Mark have demonstrated a significant commitment to science teaching and learning, even at this challenging time for schools.

"The profile and quality of science in each awarded school is very high.

"Children are engaging with great science both in and outside the classroom, developing positive attitudes towards science as well as secure scientific understanding and skills. Science subject leaders, their colleagues, headteachers, children, parents and governors should be very proud.”