Part of the evidence for the valuing inclusion Theory of Change, ASDC interviewed people who have been inspired to work in science as a result of visiting one of the UK's science centres or museums. These stories capture the awe and wonder that has stayed with them throughout their lives, shaping and influencing their career paths.
In addition to the case studies from the Valuing Inclusion programme, ASDC interviewed people working in science, from a wide variety of roles, ages and stages of their journeys and careers. Everyone shared their personal stories about how their visits to science centres and museums had an incredibly profound impact on their lives.
Angharad Morgan's story
Angharad shares how an unexpected visit to Oriel Science centre in her local town centre not only made her realise the breadth of STEM careers that exist, but also helped her to feel that she could belong in them. She became the first person in her family to go to university, graduating with a 1st class degree from Oxford, and is now a Natural Capital Specialist at Natural England.
Angharad Morgan shares her story from visiting Oriel Science in Swansea
Mark Urmston's story
Engineering manager Mark discusses how his experience at The Exploratory science centre helped him develop skills that still benefit him in his career today. He points out that the initial ‘wow factor’, in combination with the freedom to explore and experiment, allows visitors to develop the critical thinking skills and curious mindset that are vital in the STEM sector.
Mark Urmston's story about how his visits to The Exploratory Science Centre helped him develop skills that still benefit him in his career today
Mark also tells the story from his children's perspectives...
As a parent of two children on very different parts of the autism spectrum, Mark reflects on how science centres like We The Curious are accessible to people of different abilities. Whilst his son loves interactive exhibits, his daughter’s social engagement has been facilitated through structured conversations with staff. Mark shares how having a variety of experiences available allows everyone to feel welcome.
Mark's reflections from his family's perspective
Hemlata Pant's story
Hemlata, a biochemistry student at The University of Bristol, tells us about how her experiences at We The Curious shaped her career path through the power of awe, giving her a desire to generate change in the world. Thanks to the sense of belonging she felt there, it’s become a place she has stayed connected to, from her early visits, through to hosting an exhibition in the space.
Hemlata's story about how visiting We The Curious science centre in Bristol inspired her to continue her studies in science
Mark Foxsmith's story
Mark walks us through his journey from finding school a 'nightmare' as a dyslexic, to becoming a science teacher, with the the hands-on approach of The Exploratory Science Centre giving him "the gateway I needed to complete my knowledge and to give me the explosion of confidence that I could teach".
Mark Foxsmith's journey into teaching science
Will Pattle's story
Will tells us how working at The National Space Centre allowed him to develop the confidence and skills to get into teaching. Thanks to the Centre supporting his career development by providing opportunities to explore his specific interests, Will’s now the Science Lead at a local specialist school for students with autism and ADHD.
Will's story about developing the confidence and skills to get into teaching at a specialist school
