THE Valley Community School has won a national award for inspiring the next generation of young Einsteins.

The primary school in Astley Bridge received the Silver Primary Science Quality Mark (PSQM) for the way it plans and delivers lessons to children inside and outside the classroom.

Science co-ordinator, Bridget McGinley, said: “We were really pleased because the hard work of the children and staff was formally recognised which is a boost to everyone involved. It shows we’re making a difference."

For the award the science team had to collate evidence from science displays, science lessons, photographs and planning, and ensure children were being taught the skills to be curious, enthusiastic scientists in the making.

The PSQM award celebrates a commitment to excellence in science teaching and learning. The award is led by the University of Hertfordshire, in partnership with the Primary Science Teaching Trust, and enables schools to work together and share good practice.

Jane Turner, PSQM national director, said: "Gaining a Primary Science Quality Award is a significant achievement for a school. Children are engaging with great science in and outside the classroom, developing positive attitudes towards science as well as secure science understanding and skills.

"Science subject leaders, their colleagues, head teachers, children, parents and governors should be very proud."

The school said that the regional PSQM leader, who assessed the school, made positive comments about displays, independent research areas, and the school’s science day earlier this year —adding there was 'lots of evidence of children enjoying science through photographs and work in books'.

The school was also praised for the way it links science with maths, English and computing.

Children enjoy a wide range of trips and welcome visitors to school to bring the subject alive. The school also has an after-school STEM — science, technology, engineering and maths — club to enrich children's learning.