House of Science announced in December it had been awarded an international Horizon Prize for Education from the Royal Society of Chemistry UK.
The group – led by House of Science Charitable Trust Resource Developer, Jane Hoggard, and including professionals from SCION, New Zealand Agricultural Greenhouse Gas
Research Centre, and the New Zealand Environmental Protection Authority – were winners of the Royal Society of Chemistry’s Horizon Prize for Education, for their outstanding work in making science education more accessible.
The Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) receives applicants from all over the world for their awards which acknowledge individuals, teams, and schools across primary, secondary, further education, and higher education, for their exceptional contributions to chemistry education.
‘House of Science New Zealand’ was chosen by the RSC’s prestigious panel of judges for the development of a vast library of hands-on, bilingual science resource kits that enable thousands of primary school teachers across New Zealand to deliver life-changing science lessons.
Dr. Helen Pain, Chief Executive of the Royal Society of Chemistry, said: “It’s of vital importance that we recognise the crucial role that educators play in the advancement of the sciences, and that we commend their ability to inspire and nurture the next generation of bright young minds so that they can go on to make new discoveries and innovations.
“The House of Science New Zealand team’s work to deliver engaging and accessible lessons that incorporate the curriculum demonstrates an outstanding commitment to chemistry education, and it is our honour to celebrate their considerable contribution.”
Reflecting on the award, Jane says it is both a surprise and an honour, to receive international recognition for the House of Science initiative. “I am proud of the work we are doing with both teachers and students throughout New Zealand fostering wonder and curiosity in the world around us. I consider it a privilege working alongside scientists to help them with the delivery of their outreach programmes to primary school students.”
