The frequency of hands-on practical work is declining

Majority of teachers would like to keep the current approach to assessing practical skills and understanding, with some changes

'Required' or 'core' practicals, or practical assessment groups (PAGs) (depending on exam board) in England are a prescribed list of specific experiments or skills, set by exam boards, that are required to be delivered to learners and assessed through questions in terminal written exams. 

60% of respondents in England want to retain the current ‘required practical’ system of indirectly assessing practical skills and knowledge.

Open text responses suggest that many feel it is a preferable approach to previously used modes of assessment such as controlled assessment/coursework, as in their view coursework was less equitable and could be ‘gamed’.

Many argue that without this requirement of completing a set list of practical activities, it would be unlikely that any practical work is done in lessons at all.

If practicals were not termed 'required', cash-strapped headteachers could well say 'do it in groups of four, not pairs', just show a video with an AI-generated worksheet, just do a demo. Also, engagement of borderline students (those whose overall school attendance is low-ish, or who are on the grade 3-4 boundary) is improved with the possibility of practical work.

Head of science, England

Several teachers in England suggest that the 'required' or core practicals assessed at GCSE are often the only practical experiences they can give their learners.

However, many would like to see the specified practical activities reviewed, changed or perhaps even reduced in number. Some would welcome the introduction of a form of practical exam or practical endorsement, although they recognise potential logistical issues with using these methods with large cohorts at GCSE.

I think some of the practicals at the moment are of limited value, and the way they are assessed are pointless. I think it would be better to focus on skills and bring back the practical science aspect.

Science teacher, England

I think the reintroduction of practical coursework - or even a practical exam (written) based on key practicals would be good - but some of the required practicals are dull as dishwater and the questions about them in the exams are getting silly in terms of trying to ask new questions about the same practical - and therefore making them harder or less accessible.

Assistant head teacher, England

Teachers would value further professional development on practical science

Teachers reported greatest interest in professional development that would directly support classroom practice and learner assessment.

Practical chemistry was the most highly valued professional development topic among the options presented. Several teachers are seeking ideas for practical activities to help inspire their learners, but there is a strong thread throughout the responses suggesting that teachers want to ensure they are preparing their learners for the assessment of practical skills and knowledge.