A new degree programme has been introduced by The University of Aberdeen which will enhance science teaching in primary schools.
Meeting the Scottish Government's aim of encouraging an increase in the number of teachers with specialisms, the Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Biology and Education will educate students focusing on the science areas of the curriculum.
The degree programme, which will receive the first intake of students in September this year, will also help plug the potential future skills gap in Science teachers.
Some Scottish local councils expect 50% of their teaching staff to retire within the next decade, with the number of Science teachers in particular expected to decline, whilst nationally very few primary teachers have degrees in science.
The Biology and Education degree is the only programme of its kind in Scotland to draw on the disciplines of education and science equally within its syllabus. The programme is also unique in that prospective primary and secondary school teachers are taught together.
Elaine Cowan, School of Education, University of Aberdeen said: "Building the foundation for science education needs to begin at the earliest possible stage of learning. This initiative recognises the need to engage pupils across primary and secondary education with the subject of science - and importantly encourage them to realise the significance and relevance of science in their lives.
"It is therefore crucial to develop the skills and abilities of new teachers to specialise within this area of the curriculum, and the new BSc in Biology and Education directly meets this requirement."
Dr Mark Young, School of Biological Sciences, University of Aberdeen said: "The BSc Biology and Education is unique, in that it straddles both the disciplines of education and biology. Students of the course will have full access to the range of biology courses offered by the University whilst their degree programme will also provide the opportunity to focus on specialist topics and relevant project work.
"The intent is to equip graduates of the course with an in-depth and robust understanding of modern biology and its place in the world, whilst training them to become effective and engaging teachers."
Last month the Scottish government announced the introduction of new qualifications in science and languages for secondary 5 and 6 pupils in Scottish schools. The Scottish Language Baccalaureate and the Scottish Science Baccalaureate, which aim to engage young scholars with these key disciplines, will be available in the 2009 – 2010 school term.
Elaine continues: "The creation of the new degree programme complements and supports the Scottish Government's Baccalaureate scheme. The long term objective is to spark scholars' interest in further education and ultimately careers within scientific fields. Educating student teachers to have the skills and ability to provide inspirational and motivating teaching is fundamental to the success of this initiative."
For more information on the BSc Biology and Education visit http://www.abdn.ac.uk/sras or contact the University of Aberdeen Student Recruitment and Admissions Service on 01224 272090 or by email at href="mailto:sras@abdn.ac.ukl">sras@abdn.ac.ukl</a></p>