Dr Dermot Green from the School of Mathematics and Physics at Queen’s was representing both the University and the Institute of Physics (IOP) when he met with elected representatives.

He was joined by the IOP’s Chief Executive Officer, Tom Grinyer, Director of Policy and Public Affairs, Tony McBride, Ireland's Policy Manager Michelle McQuaid and Co-Head of IOP Ireland Lee Reynolds.

They highlighted the benefits of physics and also the challenges of Northern Ireland’s education system.

They met with NI Education Minister, Paul Givan MLA, Junior First Ministers Pam Cameron MLA and Aisling Reilly MLA, Chair of Stormont Education Committee Nick Mathison MLA and NI Chief Scientific and Technology Adviser, Professor Helen McCarthy.

Dr Green explains: “It is vital that our elected representatives understand the crucial role of physics in our society. In particular, physics is hugely beneficial to the Northern Ireland economy, with physics-based industries contributing to seven per cent of Northern Ireland’s GDP.

“We were also able to provide advice on the NI Curriculum and emphasise the importance of elevating science in the curriculum for both primary and post-primary students.”

Dr Green has also met with Lucy Crehan, the educational consultant tasked with the review of the NI Curriculum. During the meeting, he was joined by IOP Head of Education, Charles Tracy, and IOP Ireland Co-Head Lee Reynolds.

The group presented the IOP’s response to the current curriculum review questions for both primary and post-primary level, drawing on recent IOP research.

More information is available here.

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