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Leading figure in design and technology world
Webster Associates founder, Pat Webster has many years’ teaching and project management experience in the field of design and technology.
Pat Webster’s biography
In 1976 Pat qualified as a primary school teacher, specialising in mathematics, art and design. In 1987 she established a ‘Design and Technology Centre’ in Sheffield, a practical and innovative resource base used by over 6,000 children and their teachers.
Pat gained recognition as an Ofsted Inspector and LEA Adviser for design and technology and, in this role, worked abroad helping other countries to extend their technology curriculum.
Since becoming a freelance consultant in 1997 Pat has been involved in product development projects in America, Denmark and Sweden. This has included researching and writing curriculum enrichment materials for LEGO, K’NEX, BRIO, PLAN toys and the National Trust.
In addition, Pat has presented numerous seminars and workshops abroad and in the UK, including the NEC in Birmingham, G’Mex in Manchester and London’s Olympia.
Pat pioneered using design and technology workshops to involve families in practical activities that produce quality outcomes, an approach that develops key skills as well as improving confidence and self-esteem.
As the designer and manager of the ‘Boots Family Learning Project’, she enthused hundreds of families through her creative design and technology workshops. Indeed, Pat was an inspiring mentor to the trainee teachers who serve as facilitators at the workshops and was awarded an Education Extra fellowship for her leadership.
This project also appears in several publications including Baroness Kay Andrews book, ‘Extra Learning – New Opportunities for the Out of School Hours’.
Her approach is now being adapted and taken on board by other business and education partnerships, LEAs, EAZs and disseminated through national conferences.
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A string of awards
Pat Webster has written many design and technology related teacher’s guides and has won educational awards, including the Adult Tutor of the Year Award presented by NIACE in association with Learndirect and the Department for Education and Skills, for her Family Learning work plus the Education Extra fellowship 2002 for community based initiatives.
The Department for Education and Skills and Ofsted has written highly of her work. Jacqui Smith, recent Parliamentary under Secretary of State for Schools, commented upon the value that Pat’s work added to the life of the school, families and local community.
Pat is also the holder of the Royal Society and British Association Millennium Award for her work in developing public understanding of science and technology.
Design and technology for all
Through Pat, Webster Associates has opened up the world of design and technology to a wider audience. Her classroom based courses have inspired children and teachers alike.
In 2002 she created the Engineering and Physical Science Research Council (EPSRC) ‘Rowdy Robot’ challenges, with the aim of encouraging even more Dads and male carers to become involved in Family Learning activities.
But that’s not all, Pat has also helped teachers to develop their own creative teaching aids, in her work with teachers and the provision of resource kits and materials for schools.
Family learning workshops, have used design and technology to get families working together through fun arts and crafts activities.
Linking industry and education through design and technology
Pat has combined her work with various engineering companies and design and technology organisations, with her education experience to provide a link between education and industry.
For more information about Pat Webster and how Webster Associates works with teachers, families and organisations to make design and technology fun then call now on 0114 2361648 or complete our online contact form. |
