MBE for academic who inspired pupils to take up science
AN academic who has spent 15 years inspiring young scientists and encouraging women to get involved in Stem subjects has been awarded an MBE.
Wendy Sadler, 44, from Llandaff, Cardiff, set up her own social enterprise business – science made simple – in 2002 aimed at promoting science-based learning for young people across the UK by presenting interactive performances for school pupils.
The company now employs 17 people and has worked in more than 30 countries around the world, inspiring young scientists and breathing life into Stem subjects for thousands of youngsters.
After hearing about her MBE, Wendy said: “When I got the letter I was speechless. It is a huge honour to be recognised for years of hard work, promoting the importance of science-based learning that is entertaining and engaging for young people. Without my passionate and dedicated team I would never have been able to achieve anything close to this. I want to thank them and everyone who has supported science made simple over the last 15 years.”
Wendy came to Wales from Wombourne, near Wolverhampton, in 1991 to study physics and music at Cardiff University.
After meeting her future husband, Dan, Wendy stayed in the capital and began a career in science communication at the Cardiff Bay discovery centre, Techniquest.
“Working at Techniquest was my first taste of demonstrating science to young people in a fun and engaging way. Seeing the reactions from both children and parents really brought it alive for me.”
Wendy said it was the limited curriculum in schools that spurred her on.
She said: “It was clear to me that the UK school curriculum only goes so far when it came to science, especially physics. Since our inception we have aimed to bridge the gap between what is being taught in the classroom and what practical skills and knowledge are essential when pursuing a career in the physical sciences and engineering.
“Our social enterprise looks to enrich the scientific understanding of young people whilst supplementing the curriculum with entertaining methods of learning.”