We have supported Science and Plants for Schools for more than 20 years in its work to strengthen plant science education in schools by inspiring the next generation of plant scientists and supporting teachers to bring plant science to life for all pupils.

It is vital that young people understand the importance of plants in the world, are aware of the relevance of plant science to modern life, and have a good knowledge of how plants work.  Plant scientists are working at the very forefront of biology today, investigating how to create sustainable food and fuel supplies for the global population, protect biodiversity for future generations, and deepen knowledge of how living organisms have evolved and develop.  For today’s research to have impact, we need to ensure that we inspire the next generation of plant scientists to continue this work and develop new ideas.

Science and Plants for Schools (SAPS) was launched in 1990 and has been core funded by Gatsby ever since.  SAPS supports teachers and technicians to bring plant science to life for students by:

• producing interesting and useful resources for schools and colleges, focusing on high quality practical work;
• working with educational organisations to ensure the science curriculum and qualifications support learning and enjoyment of plant science;
• creating an award scheme for teachers and technicians to fund opportunities for professional development centred on the teaching of plant science;
• co-funding a Nuffield Education Fellowship supporting a science teacher on secondment to develop new activities and schemes of work surrounding plant science in secondary schools;
• encouraging plant scientists - from undergraduates through to international researchers - to get involved in education and outreach activities.

In 2011 SAPS launched its new website with a fresh, modern look, clearer categorisation of and access to the 100+ teaching resources, and links from teaching materials to contemporary news and research.

SAPS is managed by a team comprising:  Ginny Page (Director); Dan Jenkins (Project Manager); and Harriet Truscott (Communications Officer).  Its base in the Cambridge University Botanic Garden provides excellent opportunities for working with researchers in the Department of Plant Sciences and nearby Sainsbury Laboratory, as well as horticulturalists and education specialists in the Botanic Garden.