Cafe Sci and award schemes

 CREST Award Extended project work inspired by a Cafe Sci experience 

CREST (Creativity in Science and Technology) is the nationwide curriculum enrichment award scheme for project work in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM). It is run by the British Science Association and was established over 23 years ago. Through CREST, young people aged 11-19 explore the real nature of STEM by doing their own creative project work.

CREST Awards are available at Bronze, Silver and Gold levels, depending on the amount and depth of work carried out.  The award criteria is based on students having the opportunity to:

• practice existing scientific and technological knowledge and develop new knowledge
• follow a sensibly integrated process to complete a project
• demonstrate individual and independent learning
• apply their work to a ‘real world’ context
• research and make use of material and human resources
• demonstrate some creativity or innovation in their work
• communicate their project work to audiences, both expert and non-expert
• consider the broader implications of the work of scientists and technologists

The scheme accredits different types of project work in STEM (including science communication projects, practical investigation/design work and research projects). Using one Cafe Sci experience as a starting point, students can go on to explore a topic in detail and achieve a CREST award in the process.

The award is a tangible recognition of success, which can be included in the student’s personal record of achievement and used to enhance applications to universities, colleges and potential employers. Students who complete a CREST award also have the opportunity to have their work celebrated at regional and national fairs. For more information about CREST including how to get started, visit the website

The Primary, Secondary and Advanced Leaders Award for Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics
is open to all pupils and students aged between 5 and 19 years. The award is in two parts:

A letter of application for the post of 'STEM Leader'. The post is a one year appointment and to achieve the full award the application must outline how you are looking to act as an ambassador for the school or college. It should highlight how you are prepared to help others in STEM related activities, what activities you are involved in, would wish to be involved in and possible career paths you are considering.

To complete the award you would interview a person who works in the field of science, technology, engineering, mathematics - this can be completed as part of a small team or as an individual. There are no limits on the number of interviews / certificates you can apply for in any one year. For example if you are at secondary school and you have sent your letter of application you could then interview a Scientist and receive the 'Secondary Leaders Award for Science', then a Technologist and get the 'Secondary Leaders Award for Technology'.... and so on.

Each year you can reapply with a new updated letter of application and a new round of interviews. Look on this as a great way to discover what careers are actually available and what it is really like to do them!

The best articles will be published on the website and circulated to the organisations that support the aims of the project and the wider press. Help can be given to locate individuals from specific fields /careers. The letter and application should be emailed to editor@leadersaward.com