Science
GCSE Science update: The Head Teacher declaration form
This update is for GCSE (9-1) Science and provides a link to the Head Teacher declaration form that should be submitted by the 15 April.
GCSE Science practical requirements for 2023
As you will be able to read in a previous update practical requirements return to normal in 2023 for GCSE and A level Science. This means for GCSE Science students are required to undertake the core practical activities listed in our specifications. We provide a GCSE Core Practical Guides and videos to support centres with practical work. These can be found on the GCSE Science qualification page under the 'teaching and learning materials' section.
Head Teacher declaration form
Centres must also confirm that students have completed the mandatory core practicals by completing and submitting a GCSE Head Teacher declaration form.
This must be submitted to Pearson by 15th April in the year of certification. Any failure by centres to provide the declaration will be treated as malpractice and/or maladministration.
You can access the Head Teacher declaration form, along with accompanying FAQs, from the link below.
The completed Head Teacher declaration form should be submitted via the online form below.
Subject advisor
Irine Muhiuddin
Science
Subject updates
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April 2026 Teaching Science update
Welcome to the April Teaching Science Update.
This update includes key dates for Head Teacher declaration forms, the A level Biology A pre-release article for summer exams, training events such as a BTEC briefing on Level 2 and Level 3 reforms in England, Paper 3 preparation networks for A level Chemistry and Physics, new A level Physics switching guides for Pearson Edexcel, and other qualifications news to keep you informed.
Best wishes,
Irine Muhiuddin
Science Subject Advisor
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International Science Qualification News April 2026
Hello colleagues,
Welcome to your April update for teachers of International Science qualifications! This update has information on the scientific article for IAL biology, an invitation to take part in research for IAL biology and chemistry teachers, news of support for centres affected by the conflict in the Middle East, a UCAS consultation which may be of interest to those in the UK, and recordings of recent 'preparing for our exams' training!
As ever, don't hesitate to get in touch if I can help in any way - why not book a Teams call with me (follow the link below) if it would be helpful to talk something over?
Best wishes,
Tim Lawrence
Pearson Edexcel Subject Advisor for International Science Qualifications