My role involves leading the AQA team responsible for advising UK schools on best practice for Science practical work at both GCSE and A-level. During my twenty year teaching career, I taught all three Sciences, was Head of Faculty for Science and held whole-school responsibility for aspects of teaching and learning. I have a passion for my subject – in particular the practical application of science – and have lead training courses throughout the UK supporting teachers to develop their planning for, direct assessment of and tracking of practical skills and competencies. I am responsible for all AQA A-level monitoring of practical skills in schools and colleges and am always very keen to support teachers to prepare for their visit to maximum effect.