A Cardiff primary school teacher has been recognised with a prestigious national award for her inspiring work teaching science.
St Fagans Church in Wales Primary School teacher Linda Curwen has been awarded the AstraZeneca Primary Science Teacher of the Year accolade for her refreshing and enlivening approach to the subject.
Science subject leader and senior leader at St Fagans, Linda took the opportunity to refresh the science experiences within the school using a context and enquiry driven approach when the National Curriculum underwent a revision.
An example of her innovative and engaging ways of capturing children’s interest in science is an investigation into the sinking of the Titanic when children explored the secrets behind icebergs, buoyancy tanks, radio communications and much more, providing them with an opportunity to develop and deepen their science skills, knowledge and understanding.
Linda has guided and inspired teachers in her own school and has also allowed teachers from across South Wales to visit her classroom and participate in a “learning walk” in order to reflect on their own practice.
By winning the award, Linda has earned £1,000 for St Fagans Primary, as well as a personal award, and joins the AstraZeneca Science Teaching Trust Primary Science Teacher’s College which includes past winners. Professor Dudley Shallcross, Director of the AstraZeneca Science Teaching Trust will present the school with a cheque on Tuesday April 12.
Executive Member for Education and Lifelong Learning, Cllr Freda Salway, said: “I’m delighted to hear of Linda’s success and the benefits her award will bring to St Fagans Primary. She is an excellent science practitioner and has helped children to make excellent progress in their understanding of science.
“We have some amazing teaching talent in Cardiff and it is always nice to be recognised. I’m sure Linda will continue to inspire and engage young people, and indeed her teaching peers. My warmest congratulations go to Linda on this fantastic achievement.”
St Fagans Headteacher Alison Price said: “As a result of Linda’s innovative and creative approach to science teaching, our pupils really enjoy science and develop very good investigative skills. Linda’s support for her colleagues ensures that this is evident throughout the school. Her recognition is well deserved and we are very proud of her achievement.”
