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Outstanding teachers recognised at the Primary Science Teaching Awards 2024

17 October 2024

Duo rewarded with IOP-endorsed accolades for innovative practice and exceptional dedication to primary science teaching, through which they inspire their students.


Two teachers have been recognised by the Institute of Physics (IOP) for outstanding primary science teaching at this year’s Primary Science Teaching Awards (PSTAs).

Amanda Lambert from Holy Trinity CE Primary School in Richmond upon Thames and Hannah Wain from St Chad’s CE Primary School in Newcastle-under-Lyme have each been awarded a PSTA, endorsed by the IOP, for their innovative practice and exceptional dedication to primary science teaching.

The Primary Science Teaching Trust (PSTT) works towards a vision of seeing excellent teaching of science in every primary classroom throughout the UK, with its awards celebrating the teachers who demonstrate outstanding classroom practice in science.

Amanda Lambert’s headteacher described the enormous impact Amanda has had – from raising the profile of science across the school, to engaging parents, to significant and sustained outreach support across the borough. Within the school, Amanda has been working to ensure science is part of a more connected curriculum and meaningful to children. She has been awarded a PSTA for innovative practice and exceptional dedication.

Alessio Bernardelli and Amanda Lambert standing with the award while smiling

Amanda Lambert receiving her award from Alessio Bernardelli 

After taking over as science lead at her school just over a year ago, Hannah Wain created an entire bespoke scheme of work there, and through implementing this has raised the profile of science across the school. 

Hannah’s headteacher reported that the other staff have grown significantly in confidence and enthusiasm for science, and that they actively seek Hannah’s support with ideas and planning. She has also been awarded a PSTA for innovative practice and exceptional dedication.

Alessio Bernardelli and Hannah Wain standing with the award while smiling

 Hannah Wain receiving her award from Alessio Bernardelli 

Alessio Bernardelli, Professional Support Coach, Learning and Skills, IOP, said: “Attending the awards ceremony, it was interesting to learn that many teachers did not come from a science degree, but developed a passion for science teaching in primary during their practice and took steps to develop their skills and knowledge to become science leads. 

“This is a great scheme from PSTT, and we are glad to be a part of it. Teachers such as Amanda and Hannah, who are doing incredible work, going above and beyond what is usually expected, deserve to be celebrated.”

Martin Pollard, Chief Executive, PSTT, commented: “Each of our PSTA winners has achieved fantastic things in primary science – inspiring children in their own schools as well as supporting science in their wider communities.”

Winners of a PSTA in 2024 receive £1,000 personal prize money, a selection of TTS science resources (sponsored by TTS Group) for the school, and a year’s Association for Science Education membership.

Amanda and Hannah have also been inducted into the Primary Science Teacher College as College Fellows along with the other winners, where they will have access to benefits including receiving funding and support from the PSTT to continue and expand their work in primary science education.