The Science Learning Centres were set up following the critical Roberts Review into the shortage of skills in the engineering and scientific sectors in England. Roberts took the view that the prosperity of the nation was linked to the supply of scientists and engineers and that much of the blame for the shortages lay in school education. He noted the poor standard of school laboratories and the quality of pupils learning experiences in practical classes. He also identified problems in recruitment and retention and a lack of teachers with specialised subject knowledge. Roberts felt...