Whether you’re a seasoned physics teacher, a trainee just finding your feet, or simply curious about science education, IOP Spark is a name worth knowing. Created by the Institute of Physics (IOP), it’s become one of the UK’s leading hubs for teaching and learning resources in physics. Here are five things that make it truly brilliant:

1. It’s Completely Free to Use

IOP Spark is open-access, meaning anyone can browse and use the majority of its resources without paying a penny. Teachers, technicians, and students can download lesson plans, practical experiments, and classroom materials without worrying about subscription costs.

2. Packed with Classroom-Ready Resources

From interactive animations and videos to printable worksheets and diagnostic questions, IOP Spark offers thousands of resources you can drop straight into your lessons. It saves teachers valuable planning time while ensuring activities are engaging and scientifically accurate.

3. Supports Ages 5 to 19

It’s not just for secondary schools. IOP Spark covers physics content for learners from primary school right up to A-level. So whether you’re teaching forces to seven-year-olds or quantum phenomena to sixth formers, you’ll find resources pitched at the right level.

4. Backed by Science Education Experts

The resources on IOP Spark aren’t random internet finds—they’re created and vetted by physics educators and subject specialists. That means you can trust the materials to be accurate, up to date, and rooted in solid teaching practice.

5. Helps Teachers Develop Their Practice

IOP Spark isn’t just a bank of resources; it’s also a space for professional growth. It offers articles on pedagogy, CPD opportunities, and insights into how students learn physics concepts, helping teachers improve their classroom techniques and confidence.

In short, IOP Spark is a game-changer for anyone teaching or learning physics. If you haven’t explored it yet, head over to spark.iop.org and discover a world of physics inspiration.