CSES launches new Primary Resource Kits scheme
We have been working with a small number of primary schools to trial the introduction of a new feature of the CSES STEM Club Bursary. This is the Primary Resource Kits scheme, providing free resource kits to support teaching of science at KS1 and KS2. We are aware of the challenges that teachers can face in terms of obtaining resources (or resources that work properly!) when planning and delivering engaging science lessons. It is our aim to support teachers and, in turn, help children explore science and technology.
Priory Primary School in Bicknacre have been among the first to make use of this scheme, taking delivery of a seed kit, wild west desert garden, grow-your-own herbs kit and a stick-on fabric plant diagram. Together, these make up the 'Plants' subject resource pack (others available include 'Electricity', 'Space', 'Rocks' and 'Light').
Following a successful use of the resources by one of the classes, Joanne (Vice President) and Zayeem (Secretary) attended the school in June 2025 to give a talk on different disciplines of engineering and to engage the children by asking them what they think an engineer is both beforehand and afterwards. This was part of a STEM week organised by the school.
Kerry Lavender-Mitchell, the link teacher at Priory Primary School, said:
We used the plants kit to enrich our science week at Priory. Our theme is adaptation and change so the desert plants were particularly useful for this. We are also currently planting in our school garden. The diagrams will be kept and re-used for the future. We enjoyed welcoming you into our school to meet our students and inspire a love of science.
The Primary Resource Kits scheme will launch more widely in the coming academic year – please keep an eye out for details.
CSES supported five schools with other £1300 of bursary funding in 2024-2025. To find out how this could benefit your school, please visit cses.org.uk/education/bursary.