A club leader at Cavendish School has scooped a prestigious science prize.
Tracey Padgham, senior science technician, has been awarded the Gratnells Science Technician of the Year Award 2009.
She triumphed over a huge number of nominations and will attend a ceremony at The Royal Institute in London in July to collect the award.
Tracey has been with the Science Team for 12 years and was promoted to senior science technician in November 2007.
Her love of practical science and enthusiasm for the subject mean that she is always looking for new and innovative ways to help the teaching staff make lessons more engaging for students.
She helps out in practical lessons, has introduced some rather explosive classroom demonstrations, has been involved in leading projects with the STEMNET after school club and has plans for the future development of a primary outreach project.
Tracey said, "Since childhood I have had a passion for science. I was one of those kids who always wanted to know 'how things worked' and my favourite lesson at school was chemistry.
"This led me toward a career in science, and I feel lucky have found a job where I can play a part in inspiring the same enthusiasm in young people."
A school spokesperson added, "The Gratnells Science Technician of the Year Award is an important vehicle for giving Science Technicians the recognition they deserve.
"The vital role that science technicians play in the efficient running of school Science Departments is often overlooked."
Source: Eastbourne Herald