Ruane provides funding for initiative to encourage teaching of physics

Education Minister, Caitríona Ruane, has provided funding to support the establishment of a Physics Teacher Network.

The Minister was speaking at the Lords of the Ring event at the NI Science Park to promote science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM).

The Minister said: “It is widely recognised that, for the development of our local community and wider society, there needs to be a greater focus on building a pool of young people with skills and expertise in the STEM subjects. It is equally important to promote STEM opportunities in all education sectors and increase the numbers of young people pursuing knowledge and qualifications in these areas.

“My Department has secured £20,000 funding per annum for this year and next, from the Innovation Fund to support the Institute of Physics in Ireland’s establishment of a Physics Teacher Network here in the north of Ireland. The funding will ensure that the work of the existing local coordinator in the north is supported through the appointment of two additional coordinators. They will promote physics teaching, support the professional development of teachers and develop resources for schools.

“These activities are crucial to ensure the quality of physics education is improved and to encourage students to participate in this area. I am fully supportive of the Institute of Physics and wish this initiative well for the future.

“Tomorrow I will meet with over 200 pupils from across the north of Ireland who will be taking part in the next BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition which strives to encourage young people to get involved in science. This all-Ireland exhibition has grown in strength and popularity over the years and since last year, the north has seen a 66% increase in the number of entries with 83 projects entered and 42 getting through to the finals.”

Notes to editors:

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