I don’t know whether you’ve noticed that we’re in the middle of
National Science Week in the UK at the moment. This is promoted by the people who used to call themselves the “British Association For The Advancement Of Science” but shortened it to just the BA which I find snappy but confusing… However, the work they do in promoting science to school-children is very laudable, whatever they call themselves.
Here’s a link to their website where it tells you all about National Science Week. the-BA : National Science and Engineering Week
I have had some excellent experiences in using the BA events and materials as a foundation for involving a company in working with schools. If you can’t access the BA where you live, perhaps there is a similar organisation you could tap into?
As part of a previous Science Week, I went into a school
with a number of colleagues and helped a class full of children to
carry out the kind of exciting, noisy and messy experiment that
we all love to do, but which is a nightmare for a single teacher to
set up, supervise and clear up after. The PR department provided us with a few branded stationery items to give out (apparently children never have enough pencil cases!). The experiment didn’t need to be carried out by a super-qualified scientist, didn’t need hugely expensive or specialised equipment, but it did allow children of all abilities in the class to get enthusiastic about real scientific method. “What happens if…?” is one of the most powerful questions in the world.
Essential success factors for this kind of involvement?
Well as with most things, careful planning and preparation are key.
Make sure you know who is available from your firm to help out; make sure you know who is going to work with you at the school; how many children will be involved (this is important for your measurement of Corporate Responsibility effort too) and what age group. Check that the teacher is happy with the experiments you will be carrying out and that you agree who will be providing any equipment. Since schools generally
operate on a very tight budget, you may be sure that offers of help in providing materials will be gratefully received. The BA produce some excellent experiment sheets with ideas including background and full lists of materials. Don’t forget to record how much time your firm donates to the exercise, as well as any cost of materials.
If you will want to use the event for some good PR locally or in
internal publications, check the school’s policy on photographs of
children as this can be a sensitive area. However, schools are often glad to share the PR benefits as it is seen as a good thing to have support from businesses and helps to attract more children to the school keeping funding levels up. You should therefore be able to reach agreement on photos.
I hope this inspires you to plan an event with a school near you.
Tags: community involvement, National Science Week, Science in Schools, social footprint, social responsibility
