Science teachers often struggle to make space for themes that feel personal or are not directly linked to examinations. This issue focuses on two such themes: adolescence and birdwatching. ​‘Using science to support students in navigating adolescence’ illustrates how science can help students understand physical, emotional, and social changes, while creating a supportive space for discussion. ​‘Why introduce students to birdwatching?’ shows how a simple, low-cost activity can build core scientific practices such as observation, recording, comparison, and inference. Together, the articles offer practical ways to connect science teaching with students’ everyday lives and local environments.