Outreach Conference 2016

Noel studied Chemistry at Oxford and worked for Proctor & Gamble and carried out research the Newcastle polytechnic before getting the teaching bug and training to be a secondary science teacher. He quickly became Head of Chemistry and then Head of Science until moving across to his current position in 2002.  Noel is proud of the wide ranging programme of curriculum linked science workshops that Life offers. He says he is unaware of any centre offering more but recognizes that claims to offer the widest selection in the known universe could be considered hyperbole. Noel is a past-chair of  the British Interactive Group. Outside of Life he is a keen naturalist and  has been leading monthly meetings for young people for well over 40 years. Wearung another hat, he is reknowned for his Science through the medium of cocktails events which use alcoholic beverages  to deliver interesting science storylines

Donna is STEMNET’s Regional Networks Manager for the North; overseeing STEM engagement activities in over 600 Secondary schools with over 5,000 STEM Ambassador volunteers across the North West and North East.
Previously Donna was the Head of Learning and Participation at the National Media Museum (part of the Science Museum Group) where she introduced a STEM focus to the learning offer for schools, families and adults; concentrating on the importance of engaging those from lower socio-economic backgrounds. During this time Donna’s interests lay in the role that informal learning plays in the development of a person’s Science Capital.
Other roles have included managing the STEMNET Contract for Greater Manchester at the Museum of Science and Industry and designing, resourcing and delivering science shows and outreach events at Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum.
Donna has a degree in Biochemistry and Biological Chemistry, a PGCE in Secondary Science and regularly volunteers her time as a STEM Ambassador. When she’s not doing STEM stuff, you are likely to find Donna running, hiking, shopping or watching her beloved Stoke City…not usually all at the same time