Alan Titchmarsh swaps seeds for science

Well-known gardener, broadcaster and novelist Alan Titchmarsh will swap seeds for science tomorrow (Wednesday 5^th October) with the help of an expert Cardiff University science communicator in a bid to encourage more kids to take up science.

The day-time TV host will be joined by Cardiff University’s School’s Liaison Officer, Wendy Sadler, who will present some simple science experiments to encourage more parents to do simple, non dangerous scientific experiments at home with their children.

Wendy said: "Not enough parents are aware of how they can help inspire their child’s interest in science. Through our on-going work in schools we seek to translate complex science into fun and exciting activities for children.

"More importantly we hope to encourage the next generation of scientists. Having the chance appear on programmes like this will hopefully help us reach a much wider audience."

Based in Cardiff University’s School of Physics and Astronomy, Wendy is widely recognised for her science communication work. She launched a spin-out company from the School of Physics and Astronomy, called Science Made Simple, which aims to translate the complexities of cutting-edge science into something that is accessible and interesting to a wide range of people.

Wendy was named a Woman of Outstanding Achievement by the UK Resource Centre for Women in Science, Engineering and Technology for her work and in 2007 she won the European Descartes Prize for Innovation and Science Communication which was previously awarded to Bill Bryson and David Attenborough.

Wendy is also a former Welsh Woman of the Year (Science and Technology), and Chairs the organisation WISE in Wales (Women Into Science, Engineering and Construction).

Wendy is expected to appear on the Alan Titchmarsh’s ITV 1 programme at 3pm on Wednesday 5^th October.

Related links

Science Made Simple