Athene Donald Visits Fenland Academy in Latest Speakers for Schools Outreach

Our Churchill College Master, Prof. Dame Athene Donald, visited Neale Wade Academy in March as part of Speakers for Schools, a programme with which she has been involved for a number of years. Speakers for Schools is a social mobility charity that helps state educated young people into the world of work. Founded in 2010 by ITV Political Editor Robert Peston, Speakers for Schools was initially set up to connect industry leaders with state schools, facilitating exclusive talks that provide inspiration and fuel ambitions.

In her latest talk, Athene spoke with Year 11-13 students about Variety & Creativity in Science, to help foster an interest in and awareness of what Science looks like beyond a school-room context. Whether as a career, or just having a healthy interest in the subject, Athene believes strongly that it’s important that all young people are encouraged to remain engaged with Science, regardless of background.  She hopes by sharing her experiences that students can better appreciate the breadth of opportunities available, and have the confidence to explore more options.

One of the Year 12 students (photographed above with Athene) said, “Talking to Professor Dame Athene gave me a great insight to how diverse the world of science is. she also showed me that no matter how many obstacles you face, with enough determination and hard work, you can achieve anything. She was very kind and happy to share her knowledge and experiences over a cup of tea, I think I’ve found a new role model.”

The Speakers for Schools talks aim to inspire young people to develop the confidence and knowledge to consider roles and careers they may otherwise have never thought possible. They support young people from less privileged backgrounds to recognise their own potential. It helps young people to picture themselves as the trailblazers or changemakers of the future, providing a way to help them gain awareness and the self-belief to see things differently.