From exploring muddy estuaries to using pūrākau to understand Auckland’s volcanic landscape, Jane Thomas (Samoan descent, from the villages of Lufilufi and Solosolo, Upolu) believes science comes alive when students experience it for themselves. In this Teacher Q&A, the Science Lead Teacher and Year 6 classroom teacher at Favona School, Auckland, shares how hands-on learning, […]
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What does science look like beyond the classroom? The Science Teaching Leadership Programme gives primary and secondary teachers the opportunity to find out, spending two school terms within a science-focused organisation and gaining first-hand insight into science in research, industry and the wider community. Delivered by the Royal Society Te Apārangi and funded by the […]
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The latest NZASE newsletter, sent on 22 July, is now available online. Highlights include curriculum updates, resources, upcoming science education events and key dates for teachers. This issue also features practical advice from former STANZ president Arwen Heyworth on making the most of your science technician, a companion poster with tips for building strong teacher–technician […]
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Working well with your science technician is a practical, one-page checklist designed to help science teachers build great partnerships with their science technician. Covering everything from planning ahead and communicating clearly to ordering early and providing feedback, these simple tips can save time, improve practical lessons, and create safer, more successful science learning for every […]
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Frustrated by the lack of useful information for better utilising your Science Technician? Former President of STANZ and current Cluster Coordinator for Central Auckland, Arwen Heyworth, Onehunga High School, offers some useful tips: Many years ago, when I was a new science technician, I was given an article about using support staff effectively by a colleague. Initially, […]
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How much has the school science laboratory changed over the past three decades? From handwritten labels and paper inventories to digital technology, tighter health and safety requirements, and an increasingly specialised role, Lab Manager Raewyn Keene (Waikato Diocesan School for Girls) reflects on 30 years of change—and the enduring value of practical science. Over the […]
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Find out how a childhood fascination with insects, microscopes and the tiny creatures hidden from view led Dr Marina Klemm into a career exploring some of the world’s most mysterious environments. In the latest addition to our Where Can Science Take You? poster series, discover how Marina combines biology, oceanography and environmental DNA (eDNA) to […]
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From geology and mining in Western Australia to leading science and agriculture at a rural Southland school, Jenna Halder has taken an unconventional path into teaching. In this Q&A, Jenna shares how local contexts, hands-on learning and strong community connections help bring science to life for students at Central Southland College and reflects on the […]
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Science fairs can provoke mixed feelings among teachers. They offer students the chance to follow their curiosity and develop real-world science skills, but for teachers, they can bring extra workload and parent-built projects. NZASE chats with Amanda Hood of St Patrick’s College, Wellington, about why she believes science fairs remain worthwhile, her role in relaunching […]
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The latest NZASE newsletter, sent on 3 June, is now available online. Highlights include curriculum updates, survey links, resources, upcoming science education events and key dates for teachers. This issue also features Dr Alison Campbell reflecting on two decades supporting NZ Scholarship Biology students, insights from teachers and a recent recipient on the challenges and […]
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