SSERC Home Learning

Since the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020-21, in the UK there has been a sharp rise in the number of pupils being educated at home - nearly 80%

The days of lockdown and school closures are, thankfully, now just a distant memory but it seems to us that this growing demographic is one that is worthy of our support. Accordingly, we have created a Home Educator membership category and have produced tis section of the website to highlight the resources we have that might be of use for those home educating in Science and Technology.

Please note - our focus here, as elsewhere, is on facilitating safe, effective practical work. In this case practical work that can be carried out at home.

We do not aim to educate more widely. If you need help understanding the principles of the subject or need preparation for examinations, you will need to look elsewhere. 

Obviously the best and safest place for experimental work in science and technology is in a purpose-built laboratory or workshop supervised by qualified, competent professionals.

There are however, some occasions when it may be desirable for learners to carry out some practical work at home. Some possible scenarios could be:

1. Most obviously home learning. There is a small but significant number of learners who, for a variety of reasons, are being educated either partially or entirely at home.
2. If there is a future pandemic of some disease that require some or all schools to be closed. Or if there are learners or groups of them who need to isolate as a result of disease control
3. Where individual learners have mental or physical health issues that prevent them from attending school for a significant period – obviously with them being well enough to be able to work.
4. If practical work is a part of activities to enable leaners to catch up during holidays, for instance, after a lengthy absence perhaps.

If practical work is to be undertaken at home, it is important that the right activities are chosen and that the correct procedures are followed to enable it to happen safely. Details of how to do this can be found from our guidance document that can be downloaded here

Age Groups

For the present, our guidance will limit itself mainly to under 16 levels (Although we will aim to produce further documentation for higher levels if there is a demand)