Introducing the IOP teacher training scholarship
Understanding how the universe works gives us tremendous power to change the world. The IOP is the professional body and learned society for physics in the UK and Ireland, with an active role in promoting cooperation in physics around the world. They strive to make physics accessible to people from all backgrounds as 21,000 members demonstrate their professional expertise in a range of settings, including teaching!
What does a day look like as an IOP teacher in training?
Kat Holmes is an IOP Scholar, and she's shared what some of her tasks look like as a physics teacher in training with the Institute of Physics.
How do I manage my time as a physics teacher?
I teach a range of year groups in a range of ways, from year 7’s on national curriculum topics to sixth-form students with a seminar-style approach. Therefore, managing your time is a skill you become very comfortable with!
Currently, I plan my lessons two weeks ahead, which has been working fantastically so far in reducing my stress levels and the amount of work I do at home.
I also remind myself ahead of time of the lessons I have and make a few tweaks to my lesson plan depending on how my students have been getting on in their lessons.
How do I manage my lessons?
- When there isn't an opportunity to bring in a practical activity, I like to break up our lessons with a game – Physics Articulate! It's one of their favourites and is helping them learn to express themselves more clearly.
- Building a strong foundation of routines and consistent expectations is essential. This only makes our time together more enjoyable, especially with a lively bunch of students.
- With students who do not enjoy their science lessons, I create elements that help them to feel more successful. They excel in practical work. Many can follow a circuit diagram better than I could at 14!
- I run drop-in sessions for the Year 11 students who need to catch up on missed work during lunch.
What are the best parts of teaching physics?
Watching your students confidence grow
It's terrific to see the Year 7 pupils growing in confidence, especially when they are successful and feel like the effort has paid off.
Nurturing the next generation of physicists
I have also been so impressed with how well the Year 10 students have committed themselves to the project and the depth of the questions asked.
How are IOP scholars supported?
Professional Training
To develop your physics teaching skills through Continuing Professional Development (CPD) workshops, online events, and face-to-face events taking place throughout the year. You’ll also have access to a skilled mentor.
“The added support was a big factor for me. The access to extra CPD tailored to my subject and live sessions for help and advice. Joining the scholarship also meant becoming part of a team of people who are teaching for the same reasons. They share the same crazy fascination and with that crazy fascination comes crazy ideas for lesson activities. If you're planning a lesson, the chances are there's a fun activity out there waiting for you.” - Stephanie, IOP Scholar
Networking
Online networking opportunities, and occasionally face-to-face events with your fellow scholars.
“The main benefits of taking up the IOP scholarship for me are the networking possibilities and experience sharing with other trainees, plus the recognition of IOP scholarship status when applying for ECT positions." - Louisa, IOP Scholar
Free IOP membership
Throughout your teacher training year, you’ll receive a free IOP membership. This includes full access to our in-house magazine Physics World, invitations to local branch meetings, and free journal downloads.
“The IOP scholarship has given me access to a wide range of resources and people who have much more experience than me, saving me from reinventing material.” – Alistair, IOP scholar
Financial Support
The £31,000 Scholarships are funded by the Department for Education in partnership with The Institute of Physics.
“The financial incentive has been a big help in my training year. However, what's really helped me is growing my awareness of the fantastic resources the IOP have to offer teachers. IOP Spark has been a lifesaver this year, particularly in addressing student's misconceptions.” - Daniel, IOP Scholar
The IOP strive to make physics accessible to people from all backgrounds
“Without the IOP scholarship, I would not have considered a PGCE. The scholarship made me secure in my personal circumstance, allowing me to freely pursue my training without financial fears for my future.” Habibah - IOP Scholar
The next deadline is Monday 10th March 2025, so be sure to submit your application today!
Institute of Physics - Physics Teacher Training Scholarships
