CALLINGTON Community College is thrilled to have been shortlisted in the Science Team of the Year category in the annual TES awards.
Nominations were received from across the country, with Callington amongst just four other shortlisted schools.
Principal Wendy Ashworth said: “This is an incredible achievement and well-deserved recognition for the team themselves.
“Their commitment to enthusing children, engaging them, sparking their intellectual curiosity and engendering them with a real passion for science, that for many extends into a vocational output, is inspiring.”
The nomination recognises the department’s commitment to raising scientific capital which was continued during the COVID lockdown. They embarked on a project with the following criteria:
1. Breaking down barriers to Higher Education
2. Engagement of the students with the local environment
3. Embedding scientific capital development in lessons
They engaged with outside groups, including the Biochemical Society, Plymouth University, and the Tamar Valley AONB to expand the students’ aspirations.
Further to this, the team applied for and were awarded a grant through the Biochemical Society Teacher Placement Scheme.
The aim of the project was to narrow the link between secondary and higher education and increase awareness, for all stakeholders, the barriers that students face when transitioning between the two. After a week placement at Plymouth University, Callington’s students were able to access:
l Additional tutoring through the university for students entering higher education (2021 and 2022)
l Student experiences, despite being COVID restricted, about marine biology, scientific research, and student experiences in science degrees.
l Practice interviews for students aiming for university
l MCAT preparation for aspiring medics
l A visit from university lecturers and admissions officers to support applications for degree level course
l Lowered tariffs for some of the students, allowing access to certain courses that students would not otherwise have
Ms Ashworth said: “A third of our school’s Sixth Form intake study one or more sciences.
“Their profile is high and as a result of their offer, 80% of them go on to study sciences at university and our students have had offers from Oxbridge and other Russell group universities.
“They truly are an inspirational team and I am delighted that their endeavour has been recognised.
“Whether or not, we win on the evening of June 25, we will continue to strive to want the very best outcomes from our students and we will continue to be proud of all that we deliver.”