What is NAIGS?

NAIGS (National Advisers and Inspectors Group for Science) is the subject group for Science Inspectors, Advisers and Consultants which is affiliated to and administered by ASE. Our role is to provide continuing updating of information and developments in science, professional development and networking opportunities for our members. We have strong links with science teachers through ASE, having co-opted membership on ASE Council. Because of the nature of our membership, NAIGS members also have close links with schools in all phases to support and advise staff on all issues relating to science education. We also liaise with Ofsted, QCA, and the DfES, meeting with their representatives formally once a year and informally on many other occasions to discuss science issues.

Who is eligible to become members of NAIGS?

Anyone who supports science in primary, secondary or special schools, other than their own, by providing advice, training, professional development or inspection, is eligible for membership. So, Ofsted inspectors and LEA advisers are members; independent consultants and trainers are members; KS3 Strategy Regional Directors and Consultants are members; Advisory teachers and some Advanced Skills teachers are members.

How do I apply for membership?

Send for an application form to Barbara Hansell at ASE HQ 01707 283000. You will need to upgrade your membership to Science Advisor grade.

How do we support members?

(a) Besides the ASE publications which members receive, we respond to requests and consultations on current issues in science by canvassing opinion amongst the membership. This keeps members aware of current educational initiatives in science and ensures that they have a say in their formulation. For example, in recent years, we have responded to consultations on the revised Standards for the Award of Qualified Teacher Status and their inspection (TTA), changes to Ofsted inspection (Ofsted), the Framework for the science strand of the KS3 Strategy (DfES), monitoring of the National Curriculum and post-16 science (QCA), the proposals to set up a National Centre for Excellence in Science Teaching (DfES) and the Green Paper proposals for a 14-19 curriculum (DfES).

(b) Regions hold regular meetings for members. A representative of each region serves on the National Committee. This facilitates networking and ensures two-way flow of information to and from members in regions.

(c) There is an opportunity for face to face networking nationally twice a year, once at the ASE Annual Conference in January and in July at our Summer Conference, which moves around the country, being held in the area of the new Chair-Elect. At the Annual Conference, besides offering members the opportunities to update their knowledge on a host of topics from the vast range available, we also ourselves host a NAIGS day, providing three seminars specifically for members and those visiting the Annual Conference who are eligible for membership. There is always a reception with a short input from a guest speaker. We also host a seminar for science teachers, usually on the Saturday.
At the Summer Conference there is a three day opportunity for members to keep up to date, listen to lectures and participate in workshops. Ofsted, QCA and the Secondary Strategy are usually represented amongst the speakers. Here we also hold our AGM. As well as attending lectures, one of the advantages of the Summer Conference moving around the country is that delegates have an opportunity to visit scientific sites of interest.

Organisation of NAIGS

NAIGS is divided into 12 regions in a similar way to ASE itself. Each region elects a representative to serve on National Committee, which meets four times each year. As well as regional representatives there are four Officers (Chair, Chair-Elect, Past-Chair and Secretary) and the ASE Officer with responsibility for liaison with NAIGS Tony Leaney. There is also the possibility of co-opting members to Committee. The present Officers are:-