Teaching Physics:

Why Physics Matters

Physics-based industries are a cornerstone of the UK economy, employing over 2.7 million people and contributing £229 billion annually – 11% of the nation’s GDP. These sectors drive innovation in healthcare, transportation, energy, and technology, underpinning much of our daily lives.

However, a significant skills gap threatens this vital sector. Nearly 9,000 physics-related job vacancies remain unfilled, and two-thirds of physics-based businesses have reported delays or cancellations of research and development projects due to skills shortages. This gap is exacerbated by a lack of qualified physics teachers in schools, particularly in disadvantaged areas.

At Physics Partners, we are committed to addressing this challenge by empowering teachers and inspiring students to pursue physics, ensuring a sustainable and innovative future for all.

Slide 5

“Resources provided and shared have been instrumental in allowing teaching staff to improve the quality of teaching and learning in physics lessons at all key stages. Inexperienced staff have been given the confidence to teach physics in an engaging and challenging way.”

Andrew Griffin

Federation Consultant for Science, Harris Federation

Slide 4

“We started a new hub in Bedford. Physics Partners were instrumental in forming the group and starting us off with training at the Institute of Physics. Our first meeting looked at the challenges of encouraging girls into studying Physics at A-level and beyond. We will also focus on methods of teaching Physics at KS3 to share good practice and build the confidence and skills in all out Physics teachers, specialist and non-specialist, to deliver stimulating lessons. We are so grateful to Physics Partners for initiating this project and are very much looking forward to what the future brings.”

Emma Smart

Head of Science, Bedford Girl’s School

Slide 1

“I have always dreaded physics practicals, but now I have a lot more confidence in setting up equipment. Other physics insets I have attended were just watch and do, but Physics Partners have the time to explain everything that I did not fully understand”

Annie Jand

Senior Science Technician, Buxton School

Slide 2

“Physics remains vitally important to our industries, our infrastructure and our economic wellbeing. For all these reasons, and to allow children to explore their scientific curiosity, all pupils deserve the opportunity to experience expert, innovative physics teaching. Physics Partners helps to achieve this important aim by sending its team of expert trainers into schools to support physics teachers and technicians. The work of Physics Partners fills a real gap in educational provision: I have watched with great interest the expansion of its activities and the increasing recognition of its value. As its Patron I wish it continuing and increasing success.”

Sir Richard Friend

Cavendish Professor of Physics, University of Cambridge

Slide 3

“As a result of Physics Partners involvement, physics teaching at Harris Accademy Chafford Hundred is much stronger, with more students choosing to take it at A-level. We have gained a variety of techniques which we can use in the classroom.”

Nick Power

Former Specialist Leader of Education – Science; Harris Academy Chaford Hundred