• Announcements

Professional Development, networks and events for NSW science teachers in 2025

  • January 28, 2025

The Science Teachers’ Association of New South Wales (STANSW) is offering a range of professional development events, networking and advocacy this year, supporting NSW teachers to excel in the classroom and lab.  

Events and courses cater to both primary and secondary stages, designed to reflect the needs of educators – from syllabus updates support to resources development, in-class and lab practical ideas, upskilling and helping teachers navigate the differing needs of students. 

STANSW has released its 2025 schedule, with registration open for term one events on the events page, at discounted rates for members. Science teachers, mark the diaries! 

2025 STANSW Event Schedule 

TERM 1 

  • March: Meet the Markers (11-12 Teachers) virtual series 

Meet The Markers of the 2024 HSC Science Examinations to better prepare students for the exams that lie ahead. Deepens teachers’ understanding of the marking and judging processes, with expert markers unpacking the difficult 2024 HSC questions, explaining what examiners are looking for beyond the criteria. Register here.  

🗒️12 March, 4:30 – 7pm – Science Extension Exam Analysis 

🗒️13 March, 4:30 – 7pm – Investigating Science Exam Analysis 

🗒️17 March, 4:30 – 7pm – Physics Exam Analysis 

🗒️18 March, 4:30 – 7pm – Chemistry Exam Analysis 

🗒️19 March, 4:30 – 7pm – Biology Exam Analysis 

🗒️20 March, 4:30 – 7pm – Earth and Environmental Science Exam Analysis 

  • Member Networks and Webinars – Online 

Connect with like-minded teachers via quarterly online meetings to discuss any issues and hear about new opportunities and teaching strategies. The following networks are open to 2025 Science Teachers’ Association members:  

6 March: Professional Practice Network 

27 March: Science Extension Network  

31 March: Primary Teachers’ Network 

1 April: Head Teachers Network  

  • April: Leadership Lab Course  

Leadership Lab: Cultivating Skills for Future Science Heads, offers a dynamic program focused on equipping aspiring science department leaders with essential skills and knowledge. The day includes team building and transitions, managing teams, effective classroom pedagogy, teaching strategies and best practices as well as safety in science, ensuring a secure learning environment through chemical management, lab design, and risk assessment. Participants engage in interactive discussions, gain practical tools, and establish valuable connections with peers, setting them on a path towards successful leadership in science education.  

TERM 2 

  • 6-7 May: Differentiation Course – Online 

This accessible online course is designed to increase science teachers’ understanding of key differentiation principles for students with diverse needs. Register here.

  • Secondary Conference (7-12 Teachers) – June 

Designed for secondary science teachers to elevate teaching strategies and practices, with subject specific sessions and practical workshops, as well as new syllabus implementation guidance. 

  • Member Networks and Webinars – Online 

29 May: Professional Teachers’ Network 

16 June: Primary Teachers’ Network 

1 July: Head Teachers’ Network 

Science Extension Network 

TERM 3 

  • Working Scientifically Conference (K-10 Teachers) – August / September 

With engaging keynote presentations and hands on workshops, and new syllabus insights, the event provides engaging sessions, practical activities and toolkits for attendees to take back to their own classrooms and master scientific thinking. 

  • Member Networks and Webinars – Online 

  • Early Career Teachers Course  

This online course is designed for teachers in their early years as a science teacher to build skills in the classroom and lab. It includes engaging presentations from experienced practitioners to provide the tools and skills needed to survive and thrive in the early years of being a science educator. 

  • 10 October: Regional Teacher Preview event – Dubbo 

Regional teachers (primary and secondary science) are invited for a day of professional development at Taronga Western Plains Zoo, Dubbo. Collaborate with fellow teachers and take part in interactive sessions. 

TERM 4  

  • Virtual Conference (7-12 Teachers) 

An accessible opportunity to access subject – specific professional development from anywhere in NSW. 

  • TeachConnect Member Networking Event 

  • Young Scientist Awards 

The Young Scientist encourages students to undertake innovative projects and investigations to find creative solutions to real-world problems. 2025 submissions will open in Term 2 and the presentation ceremony will be held in November 2025. 

You can read more about upcoming events at https://stansw.asn.au/learning-events/ 

2025 Membership 

2025 STANSW membership is open, offering access to teacher network meetings, discounts to all STANSW run and affiliate professional development events, advocacy and support, access to free teaching resources and professional opportunities.  Read more and become a member here. 

About STANSW 

The Science Teachers Association of NSW (STANSW) is a community of passionate individuals who advance science education through professional learning, networking, and advocacy. It supports teachers with resources, training, and a collaborative community to inspire and elevate science education across New South Wales. 

Teachers interested in collaborating with STANSW or presenting at a conference can submit an abstract via here, or submit a journal article for consideration here.  

Become a STANSW member at https://stansw.asn.au/stansw-membership/