Science a Catalyst for success
A BOREDOM-BUSTING project to inspire the next generation of scientists has scooped another gong for a Widnes tourist attraction.
It was the second year in a row that Catalyst Science Discovery Centre has been named Charity of the Year at the Chemicals Northwest Awards.
Lucinda Lewis, Catalyst education manager, accepted the award at a glitzy dinner at The Point in Manchester.
The achievement was in recognition of Catalyst’s science box scheme, funded by the UK Association for Science and Discovery Centre and the Science Museum Group’s Science Capital in Practice programme.
During the pandemic, Catalyst developed a range of science boxes that families could use at home to support science learning.
Each pack was aimed at families with children under the age of eight and contained instructions and equipment for various activities.
Families living within a three-mile radius of Catalyst could apply online and the boxes were delivered to their doors.
“Science capital” is a phrase used to measure an individual’s engagement or relationship with science and constitutes what they know about science, how they think about it, what science-related activities they do and the people they know who discuss it.
Martin Pearson, Catalyst chief executive, said: “We are delighted to receive this award from Chemicals Northwest.
“We worked hard during the pandemic to offer some science fun in the home environment due to the various lockdowns preventing our doors from being open.
“We are delighted to receive industry recognition for our work in the local community.”
Accepting the award, Lucinda Lewis said: “Delivering the boxes to our local community, encouraging families to engage in science at hom was rewarding in itself.
“For this project to now be recognised with Chemicals Northwest Charity of the Year Award is the icing on the cake.”