Lightyear Foundation's SEN in STEM Network's Round Table

The Lightyear Foundation’s SEN in STEM Network’s Round Table

This week The Spectris Foundation were asked to speak at the Lightyear Foundation’s Special Educations Needs (SEN) in STEM Network; a central forum of 220 members who are influential in breaking down barriers to STEM.

The network works to empower the SEN (Special Educational Needs) in STEM and aims to make STEM more accessible for people living with a disability. The event took place at The Royal Observatory in Greenwich.

Rebecca Levy, The Spectris Foundation’s Director, was joined by Dominique Sleet, from the Royal Academy of Engineering, Tom Mansell and Anna Hoddinott from the John Lyon’s Charity, and Christina Fuentes Tibbitt from the British Science Association to discuss accessible projects in STEM. The speakers shared their advice and experience on the grant-making application process and ongoing management of grants.

“It was such a brilliant experience to talk at the Royal Observatory and meet inspiring people who use science as a tool of learning and engagement for people with Special Educational Needs. The Spectris Foundation have project partners who are working to improve attainment in science for students with Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND). We aim to develop progressive, skills-based, practical learning in STEM education – which is accessible for all. This event highlighted the importance of creative learning in the sciences, and I’m excited to see the outcome of these charities innovative projects!

I was asked to describe what accessibility, inclusivity and diversity mean to The Spectris Foundation. For us, it means togetherness, opportunities and skill. We are proud of be a funder of STEM education and even prouder to be providing grants which are making STEM inclusive and possible.” – Rebecca Levy, The Spectris Foundation Director.

Following the talks there was a range of questions from the attendees and fruitful discussions on the beneficiaries of SEN in STEM projects. David Jones from the Life Science Centre spoke to the importance of parents participation and inclusion in SEN projects. He explained how powerful it can be for parents to feel empowered in science and see the positive impact it is having on their child.

If you would like to find out more about The Spectris Foundation’s grants, please see our apply for funding page.