Making science fun and understandable in schools can be quite tricky, especially when staff and equipment are lacking, but this was the mission of the mobile science lab's outgoing project leader, Cheryl Craig.
Making science fun and understandable in schools can be quite tricky, especially when staff and equipment are lacking, but this was the mission of the mobile science lab's outgoing project leader, Cheryl Craig.
After three years of heading the project that delivers a science laboratory to previously disadvantaged high schools in the Grahamstown area, Craig is putting her beaker and bunsen burner to rest. “There will always be a place for the mobile science laboratory, she said, and she hopes that it will continue to improve pupils' understanding and enjoyment of concepts in science.
She took over from Rhona Duncan, who started the project in 2003, after teaching at the Diocesan School for Girls (DSG) for 19 years. “In my last four years at DSG I got involved with an outreach program. I started a program for Grade 8s and 9s doing Science, Maths, and English in township schools,” she said.
And as a passionate teacher, she always admired Duncan's vision and the project, she explained. “I felt strongly that the practical part was an important part of teaching and in 2007 I approached her and asked if I could join her to do natural science practical in Grade 8 and 9 because of my experience at DSG,” she said.
She then joined Duncan in 2008 and took over the mobile science lab. “I really enjoyed teaching practical because learners enjoy being part of doing practicals themselves, Craig said. We always try to make practical fun.”
She credited the staff and attributes the success of the project to a small but dedicated team of committed staff that work together. “I wish the new team lots of success, and I'm confident that the lab will continue to grow from strength to strength."
She said it was a privilege for her to work for the project, but from now on she will follow her interests in crafts, gardening and travelling. Michelle Cocks, a co-ordinator of the project, said they will always have fond memories of Craig, who was a well organised and supportive project leader. “She kept us on top of everything. She would always offer support when things didn't go well. She was such a good person,” Cocks said.
