The Department of Education has praised 15 exemplary teachers for completing the first module in science leadership.

Primary school science teachers are the first to successfully complete Leadership for Quality Teaching and Learning, a course for science teacher leaders and aspiring teacher leaders.

Designed and taught by Kali Douglas, the Department’s Content Specialist Teacher for Science, the course gives teachers first hand experience in creating and leading high quality science lessons.

Ms Douglas said in a statement: “Engaging our students as scientists when they come to the science class is key.

“For many children science has become about worksheets and taking notes, far removed from the real actions of scientists.

“In the best science classrooms, students are learners who ask questions, test hypothesis, and collect evidence.

“In this course our teachers have taken on the mission to engage our students in meaningful science instruction.

“I am proud of how they have responded. They have embraced a focused vision for quality science teaching and the significant role they play to achieving successful outcomes for our students, beyond the high stakes exam.”

Lou Matthews, Director, Educational Standards and Accountability, said: “The Department of Education is committed to building exemplary teacher leaders who can serve as coaches and mentors in supporting schools in transforming education.

“In the 21st century, citizens who use science to solve existing problems of resources, environment and population are critical to the island’s success.

“Teachers are at the forefront of this movement to engage all our children as scientists. I love how the programme has begun to inspire teachers in revolutionising the science classroom.”