Ark Isaac Newton Academy (INA) has been awarded £27,000 by The Wolfson Foundation towards a new science laboratory.
The all-through school in Ilford was rated outstanding in all areas by Ofsted in 2018. Since then, the academy noted an increased demand from its students for science courses at both Key Stage 4 and Key Stage 5.
To meet this demand, the academy applied for funding through The Wolfson Foundation - an independent grant-making charity, to convert an existing general-use classroom into a science lab. The awarding of a grant enables INA to expand its curriculum offer next year, with the added option of a level three BTEC in applied science.
With practical learning at the core of the school’s approach, the project will include reconstructing the existing classroom with necessary plumbing, joinery, power and fitting it with specialist laboratory furniture.
The laboratory will fulfil the demands of GCSE and A-level specifications, and enable more students to be given access and inspiration to choose a science-based university and career paths.
“We are absolutely thrilled to have been awarded funding for a new science laboratory,” said Interim Principal Jo Spencer. “Science is extremely popular with our students here at INA, and the addition of a new science lab will ensure 100% of GCSE and A level lessons are taught in a dedicated science lab that has the facility and equipment to run high-quality practical lessons.”
Paul Ramsbottom, Chief Executive of Wolfson, said: “The foundation is committed to improving the physical learning spaces in secondary schools to allow students to benefit from learning in a modern environment. We were very impressed by the academy, and are pleased to be able to support this important project to create a new science laboratory.”
