Celebrating the technician that make practical work possible

By Sarah Atkinson posted 2 days ago

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Every day, science technicians across the UK quietly make the extraordinary happen.

Before students arrive, benches are set up, equipment is checked, experiments are prepared and risks are assessed. Technicians help make engaging purposeful practical work possible in the classroom.

Yet too often, these contributions go unseen.

The Salters’ Institute Technician Awards recognise the vital role science technicians play in supporting the teaching and learning of science and celebrate those who go the extra mile for their students, departments and wider school communities.

Why not you?

I was honoured to receive the Salters award in 2010, my HOD nominated me and like I’m sure many of you out there I thought:

"I'm just doing my job."

"There are technicians more deserving than me."

"I don't have anything special to talk about."

But the reality is that technicians regularly solve problems, improve systems, support colleagues, mentor others, introduce new ideas and create opportunities for students that simply would not happen without them.

If you've found better ways of working, supported curriculum improvements, helped inspire students through practical science, or contributed positively to your department, then you have a story worth sharing.

Heads of Department: champion the people who make practical science possible

The application process includes a supporting statement from a science teacher, Head of Science or member of the Senior Leadership Team. This is a valuable opportunity for departments to recognise the professionalism, expertise and dedication of their technician colleagues.

If you are a Head of Department, shout out about that technician who keep practical science running smoothly. Who supports teachers when plans change? Who maintains equipment, prepares resources, checks safety requirements, solves problems daily and helps students experience hands-on science?

Technicians often work behind the scenes, but their impact is felt in every successful practical lesson. A nomination is a powerful way to say: we see your work, we value your expertise, and your contribution matters.

More than an award

Recognition matters. The application process is a chance to reflect on achievements, celebrate successes and show the value technicians bring to education.

It also raises the profile of the profession and reminds us that technician contributions deserve to be seen, valued and celebrated.

Whether you are a technician considering applying or a Head of Department thinking about nominating a valued colleague, do not let this opportunity pass by.

Application close on Wednesday the 23rd of September.

Find out more and download the application forms via the Salters’ Institute Technician Awards page.

https://saltersinstitute.org/programmes/awards/technician-awards/

3 comments

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Comments

Sarah Atkinson

14 hours ago

Thank you, @Melvin Din,

Your message of support will mean a great deal to many technicians.

Tim Bradbury

yesterday

Thanks for this wonderful comment @Melvin Din

Melvin Din

yesterday

Recognising Our Unsung Heroes – School Laboratory Technicians

Kia Ora everyone,

After teaching Science, Physics, Mathematics and STEAM in New Zealand and Australia for more than 45 years, I have come to appreciate that some of the most valuable people in our schools are often the least recognised.

Our laboratory technicians are the unsung heroes of science education.

They work quietly behind the scenes, preparing practical lessons, maintaining equipment, organising chemicals, ensuring safety, repairing resources, and helping teachers deliver engaging, hands-on learning experiences. Their contribution is rarely visible to students or parents, yet without them many practical lessons simply could not happen.

Sadly, laboratory technicians often receive no or very little recognition within our education systems. Many are undervalued, underpaid, and have limited opportunities for professional growth. As experienced technicians retire, schools are finding it increasingly difficult to attract and retain skilled replacements.

Despite many science laboratories in New Zealand and Australia operating with ageing facilities and limited budgets, these dedicated professionals consistently demonstrate remarkable creativity and resourcefulness. They repair equipment, improvise solutions, stretch limited resources, and go above and beyond to ensure students continue to experience quality practical science.

In many ways, the success of a Science or Technology department is amplified by the dedication, expertise, and commitment of its laboratory technicians. They are the people behind the curtain who make it possible for teachers to inspire curiosity and foster scientific thinking.

Unfortunately, unlike many other professions in education, laboratory technicians often have no clearly defined career pathway, nationally recognised qualifications, or structured professional development programme. This is something our education systems should seriously consider addressing.

It is time we properly recognise and celebrate these essential members of our school communities. Investing in their professional development, creating recognised training pathways, improving career progression, and acknowledging their contribution will ultimately benefit teachers, students, and science education as a whole.

To all laboratory technicians across New Zealand, Australia, the United Kingdom, and beyond—thank you. Your expertise, dedication, and willingness to solve problems every day help bring science to life for countless students. You may work behind the scenes, but your impact is seen in every successful experiment, every curious student, and every future scientist or engineer inspired in the laboratory.

You truly are the foundation upon which practical science education is built. You made my 45 years teaching a breeze in many ways. ... Kia kaha / Stay strong