As we move into our 4 custom built labs and 4 dedicated classrooms I thought I would take this opportunity to describe some of the changes that students will see as they come into the Science Department at Newport High School.

1. Only 4 dedicated labs!!
   • Instead of 10 general labs, used for all Science teaching, we have moved to an innovative system of 4 dedicated labs and 4 teaching classrooms.  Instead of having all Science lessons in a lab, students will move between class and lab as appropriate, just like they would in the real world
2. Video projectors and whiteboards in all rooms
   • Gone are the blackboards and in are vidoe projectors and interactivity.  Today’s learners exist in a multiconnected world and out fascilities now reflect the growing and widespread use of ICT
3. No “make do and mend”
   • We have not brought with us from the “old school” equipment that is at the end of it’s life.  No longer will students have to put up with sub standard and broken lab kit.  We have purchased some new items, some we will need to wait for the next financial year.

Inevitably, this change has also brought some new innitiatives:

• No coats, bags or other “outside” equipment will be allowed into ANY Science room.  Students are expected to put all equipment in lockers provided.
• Students are now expected to bring all neccessary equipment (pens, pencils) to a Science lesson – we will no longer be lending out equipment.

As we get our feet under the table in the new school, I will post photographs to support this blog entry.  Any questions, please drop me a line gg@newporthigh.co.uk