OCR will bring learning to life at the event through a dynamic programme of guest speakers and interactive activities, which will unleash the adventure and excitement of science, as well as provide support and consultation. 

OCR is supporting the Open Conference, where speakers can give 15-minute sessions on a topic of their choice. Speakers may talk about any subject, express views or share their expertise and/or experiences. 

The Open Conference is ideal for people who don’t quite have the right material, or the confidence to apply to run an hour-long session. Held in a purpose-built area opposite the ASE Stand it adds atmosphere to the Exhibition Marquee and extra value for delegates. 

There will be seating for about 25 people and a data projector, screen and microphone provided. To apply for a 15-minute slot, please email your name (and organisation if applicable) and talk topic to belindablakeney@ase.org.uk  

Members of the ASE can access the insurance expertise of CCV Southampton.

As one of the many benefits of joining the association Insurance Broker CCV Southampton is offering ASE members Professional Indemnity Insurance premiums from as little as £125*, which could cover the cost of membership in some cases.

Annette Smith, the Association for Science Education’s Chief Executive, said: “Here at ASE, we try very hard to make your membership great value for money and I’m very pleased that we are able to help out those members who need Professional Indemnity Insurance.”

Read this article in full and find out how to apply on the ASE  Website.

All delegates purchasing books at the Conference benefit from special prices! Make sure you visit the Booksales stand in Mountford Hall (registration point). 

Purchase a book from the ASE Online Bookshop.

Remember ASE members enjoy substantial discounts on all resources in the online bookshop.

Read reviews of new titles on the ASE Website.

The comment comes in reaction to the Government response to the Science and Technology Committee report into Practical experiments in school science lessons and science field trips, to which the ASE contributed evidence.

The committee report issued in September found concerns “that students are not receiving the practical science education necessary to produce the next generation of scientists.”

Read this news in full on the ASE website.

The pilots will run throughout 2012 after which the Science Council intends to open the registers to other member bodies. 

Through these registers the Science Council aims to build a framework of professional standards and recognition across the science workforce.

Thinking of applying? Read our guide to the competencies, education, Continuing Professional Development, Code of Conduct and the next steps you need to take to apply.

For more information, please contact the Registrar, John Lawrence, by emailing: CSciTeach@ase.org.uk 

Application forms and other guidance will be made available on the ASE website from January 2012.

See also, the ASE Website NEWS item: ASE pilots new technicians' register.

You may have ideas and experiences to share with teachers and students, you may be looking for ways to work with schools, or you may wish to keep up with the advances in science education.

Find out more on the Associate Member section under Membership on the ASE website.

Whether you are a teacher or technician, an existing or aspiring ASE member - you should find out about the 11-19 Group Membership on the ASE website.

The journal focuses on science (including health, technology and engineering) for young children from birth to 8 years of age. The key features of the journal are that it:

• is child-centred.

• focuses on scientific development of children from birth to 8 years of age, considering the transitions from one stage to the next.

• contains easily accessible yet rigorous support for the development of professional skills. 

• focuses on effective early years science practice and leadership.

• considers the implications of research into emergent science practice and provision.

• contains exemplars of good learning and development firmly based in good practice.

• supports analysis and evaluation of professional practice. 

Articles in the journal highlight the importance of the first learning experiences in science. It attempts to redress the emphasis on secondary science education, especially since science learning starts at birth.

The journal will be published twice a year on the ASE website (www.ase.org.uk); in spring and autumn. During 2012 it will be available by subscription (£30 per year), although all ASE members will continue to receive it free of charge as a membership benefit. Members of the Emergent Science Network will also be able to access the journal at no cost. Details of how to subscribe can be obtained from sharonrolland@ase.org.uk

The first edition can also be found on the ASE website, in the primary area.

Do pass this information on to teachers and students working with children from birth to 8 years of age.