Chelsea College , Nuffield Foundation Science Teaching Project , Secondary Science Section

The Secondary Science Section of the Nuffield Foundation Science Teaching Project was concerned with the preparation of material for pupils in secondary schools aged between 13 and 16 who were unlikely to be entered for O-level papers in science. The work was based on the ideas of the Schools Council Working Paper Number I. The scheme was built around eight major themes: the interdependence of living things; the continuity of life; the biology of man; harnessing energy; extension of sense perception; movement; using materials; and the earth and its place in the universe. Each theme consisted of several 'fields' of study, and teachers were encouraged to choose their own 'routes' to determine the emphasis and timetabling of each theme. In the spring term of 1966 a small-scale feasibility trial was conducted in 15 schools, with emphasis on the suitability of pupils' material. Full-scale development trials started in 53 schools in September 1967. The organiser of the Secondary Science course was Hilda Misselbrook, assisted by Mr L G Smith as consultant and two observers, Dr J K Brierley and Mr T R Jenkyn (both Her Majesty's Inspectors of Schools).