DfE axes funding for network of support for science teaching –to cries of disbelief from providers

Practical lessons could be affected by DfE's decision to cancel Science Learning Partnerships, providers warn. Stock image provided by iStock/Getty Images.

Providers of a highly-valued network of training support for science teaching have spoken of the likely negative impact on the quality of lessons in the subject after the Department for Education cancelled its funding, bringing a halt to the programme after a decade’s work.

The Science Learning Partnerships (SLPs), through which the organisation STEM Learning has provided courses aimed at building teachers’ subject knowledge, enriching curricula and supporting lab technicians, among a host of other aspects, has had its funding cancelled from August.

The partnerships have also provided health and safety and science leadership training, in relation to subjects which the government sees as national priorities.

The move appears to have been part of attempts by the DfE to trim its central spending, though questions were being raised, by “devastated” providers, as to why this course was being pursued during a teacher recruitment and retention crisis.