The countdown is on for UK science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) educators to submit their applications for the prestigious 2024 David Clark Prize, recognising exceptional contributions inspiring young engineers. With the deadline nearing March 1st, 2024, now is the time to put your names forward for this highly competitive £15,000 award.
What is the David Clark Prize?
The David Clark Prize is presented annually by the ERA Foundation to celebrate and reward inspirational UK-based STEM educators cultivating the next generation of engineering talent.
Two prizes are awarded yearly – one to a primary school teacher and the other to a secondary school, college or UTC teacher. Winners receive £3,000 personally, alongside £12,000 for their school to fund engineering education initiatives over three years.
Why Apply for the David Clark Prize?
Beyond the £15,000 in total prize money, winners gain national exposure and esteem, which can provide further opportunities. The award recognises outstanding vision, creativity, and success in engaging engineering students.
The prize accelerates schools’ STEM programs through the £12,000 funding injection. Teachers also steer how these funds are allocated over three years to maximise impact.
Winning schools and teachers stand out in their communities as hubs for sparking engineering ingenuity. Students reap the benefits of state-of-the-art tech and innovative programs nurturing their passions.
What are the Judging Criteria?
An independent panel of engineers and educators judge each David Clark Prize application. Criteria focus on:
- Vision – Clear goals for advancing students’ engineering education over 3-5 years
- Creativity – Innovative and engaging programs sparked students’ interests
- Success – Demonstrated track record over 5+ years, with potential for ongoing impact
While recent initiatives carry more weight, sustained contributions over many years may still qualify. Applicants emphasise achievements from the past five years in their submissions.
How are Submissions Evaluated?
Complete David Clark Prize applications include:
- A 600-word written statement summarising the nominee’s vision, creativity and success in engaging students in engineering
- 1-minute video showcasing the teacher’s accomplishments
What is the Application Process?
1. Download Nomination Form
The formal nomination form contains fields detailing the applicant’s background, endorsements and vision, which can be downloaded at www.erafoundation.org/clark-prize
2. Draft 600 Word Statement & Create 1 Minute Video
The written statement and video bring the application to life, demonstrating why the nominee deserves to win. Compelling media and anecdotes illustrate their journey of inspiring young engineers.
3. Submit Completed Application by March 1st, 2024
Finished applications must be emailed to [email protected] by the March 1st deadline. Only complete or complete submissions will be evaluated.
How are Winners Recognised?
Winners are announced at the ERA Foundation’s Annual Dinner each May alongside technology leaders and policymakers. Attracting national press coverage, this high-profile event recognises the teachers making a remarkable impact in preparing future engineers. Winning schools also receive a trophy to display.
Take Away
With only weeks remaining before the entry deadline, now is the critical window for exceptional STEM educators to apply for the David Clark Prize. Winners receive significant financial support plus recognition fuelling their schools’ engineering programs.
Submit an application at www.erafoundation.org/clark-prize
TLDR
- The David Clark Prize awards £15,000 annually to two inspirational UK STEM teachers
- One primary and one secondary school teacher are selected
- Winners get £3k personally and £12k for engineering education
- Applications due March 1st, 2024, emphasising vision, creativity and success
- Prestigious prize announced at ERA Foundation’s annual dinner
