Science teachers with bright ideas need to get their low-friction footwear on soon. Applications for the latest round of the partnership grants scheme run by the Royal Society have to be in by February 9, 2007.
Offering anything up to pound;3,000, the scheme supports teachers and scientists to “work together to inspire young people” in any UK school, and with any age group from 5-18. Over pound;500,000 has been awarded to 350 schools since the scheme’s launch in November, 2000.
Projects supported last year included sunspots in Aberystwyth, crafty caterpillars in Durham, body building in Bath and good medicine, bad drugs in Dundee.
To apply online a school needs only a partner and a project idea. Support is available before, during and after application, says the society, which has a “dedicated team who can offer help and advice on investigations you may be considering”.
Partnership projects help teachers improve their scientific knowledge and scientists their communication skills. “Perhaps most importantly, these projects give school students a taste of science and engineering today, and their relevance for society,” said a spokesman for the society.
* Royal Society Partnership Scheme: http:www.royalsoc.ac.ukpage.asp?id=1948
