Science Technician of the Year Revealed

Recognised for her outstanding achievements, Dawn Clinton from Lady Manners School in Bakewell has been announced winner of the Gratnells Science Technician of the Year award 2017/18.

A Science Technician for over a decade, Dawn is now Chief Technician at the school where her role includes giving practical advice to student teachers and assisting the Learning Support department. She has run a Technician Network for 18 local schools for the past 3 years, helping other technicians and allowing them to access free CPD training and sharing resources and equipment. She also arranges speakers and workshops from popular suppliers. In 2017 she trained to become an associate facilitator for the STEM Learning Centre and through this runs courses for technicians in her local area.

Dawn has recently created a network for Derby science technicians, where she hosts meetings and eventually plans to empower them to host their own network meetings. "I feel that hosting the network has made me more confident when delivering material for internal CPD sessions with technicians and teachers as well as when demonstrating equipment for pupils". She has also been developing STEM clubs within the Science department, allowing engaged pupils to do more science in a supportive atmosphere and is hoping to run a regular family STEM club.

"Her enthusiasm is boundless", said Mr Fred Kornas from Lady Manner School. "During the 7 years Dawn has worked for us, she gives 100% in all she takes on. Her day-to-day organisation and communication skills are exceptional and she is totally committed to ensuring that the students understand and enjoy every aspect of science and the teachers' job is made much easier by her spotless lesson preparation."

Dawn was presented with the award by Gratnells Managing Director and Chairman, Murray Hudson, at a ceremony held at the National STEM Learning Centre on York University Campus, receiving £2000 worth of vouchers for her school and a personal cheque. Next year she will be invited to join the judging panel for the 2018/19 awards.

"It was a real privilege to acknowledge the dedication and commitment our STOTY winners have shown and thanks to our prize sponsors TimStar, SLS Select Education and SciChem we hope the schools will benefit too," Mr Hudson said.

Entries for STOTY 2018/19 are now open. For further information and entry details visit: www.gratnells.com