28 May 2014

Study puts science education under microscope

How to widen the pool of young people pursuing careers in science and technology is driving a study into science education across Lower Hutt secondary schools.

Hutt City Council is leading the study with support from the city’s wealth of science, and technology-based businesses who report too few New Zealanders prepare themselves to take advantage of the exciting career and entrepreneurial opportunities available in these industries.

The study supports Mayor Ray Wallace’s commitment to transforming Lower Hutt into one of the country’s leading economic growth centres, based on science, engineering and technology.

“I believe we need to engage our young people in science at an early stage and grow their interest so they take up further education and possibly one day, end up working for one of our world-leading local companies or establishing their own.

“This study will help us get a better understanding of the situation in our secondary schools and we will work with local principals and teachers to determine what, if any, actions Council could take to support science teaching and to encourage more of our young people to continue their involvement in science subjects,” he says.

The study will also include a number of science-based organisations in Lower Hutt and relevant professional associations and research organisations.

Results from the study are expected in July.

The study follows the recent introduction of a Mayoral scholarship to support the teaching of science education in Lower Hutt primary schools. Thirteen teachers have received the scholarship and enrolled in the Open Polytechnic’s Graduate Certificate in Primary Science Teaching.

ENDS

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