Astronomy teaching resources: the Pupil Researcher Initiative (PRI)

The PRI is a nationwide initiative funded by STFC and the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), and is run by the Centre for Science Education at Sheffield Hallam University. The PRI's main aim is to stimulate the study of science, engineering and technology among GCSE science students in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, and Standard Grade science students in Scotland. This is done mainly by linking schools, teachers and students with the world of research. The initiative also provides support for anyone teaching the 'investigative science' part of curricula (Sc1 in the England and Wales curriculum).

The main programme elements are:

Researchers in Residence - a very popular scheme in which trained PhD students from university departments and labs visit schools. Young enthusiastic scientists can be excellent role models for pupils

"Express Yourself" Conferences - regional events (5 per year across the UK plus a London Finale event) at which students present the results of their investigations. There are also talks and presentations by top local scientists

Teacher Advocates (TAs) are a network of experienced science teachers who have been recruited to promote the PRI in their area of the UK. They are also involved in helping to develop some of the project ideas so that they meet the needs of pupils and teachers.

Ideas and Evidence CD ROM, with 25 units linked closely to all 14-16 science curricula. The CD (ISBN: 000 711602 0) is published by Collins Educational, price 34.99. Order direct from Collins - 0870 0100 442 or Collins Education Website (link opens in a new window)|. Please quote code number 4949 when placing your order.

Pupil Research Briefs - investigative projects which fulfil the Sc1 requirement and which are set in the exciting contexts of some current UK research programmes. These have been sent to every secondary school in the UK. They are also available as pdf files from the "Resources (link opens in a new window)" section of the website.

INSET training - a series of training courses around the country, given by staff from the Centre for Science Education and TAs.

A booklet "Express Yourself: the Young Scientist's Guide to Giving Talks" is available at low cost (1.50 or free to every school registering to attend an "Express Yourself" conference).

Researcher In Residence website (link opens in a new window)