Science is uninspiring

According to the TES, the national curriculum and the testing regime lead to boring and repetitive science lessons. Ofsted found that too much time was spent preparing pupils for exams instead of allowing children to do hands-on experiments.

Primary teachers, in particular, lacked confidence, relying too heavily on textbooks and worksheets, according to the report, which looked at lessons in 90 primary and 105 secondary schools. There was limited training for teachers to enhance their expertise in science.

Christine Gilbertm the chief inspector, said: "Science is a fascinating and exciting subject, yet for many pupils it lacks appeal because of the way that it is taught."