History of the Award | Association of British Science Writers

"My husband and I founded this award to empower students from traditionally underrepresented backgrounds to achieve in subjects that are near and dear to our hearts. We want to give them a sense of possibility, helping them realise that they, too, can shine and achieve greatness no matter their background." - Alex O'Brien, Vice-Chair ABSW

The Story Behind the Young Science Writer Award and Our Eligibility Criteria

The Young Science Writer Award was established with a clear mission: to inspire young people from disadvantaged and underrepresented backgrounds to engage with STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) and science writing. Our goal is to create opportunities for students who may not otherwise have access to similar competitions or platforms for showcasing their talent.

Why the Eligibility Criteria?

We understand that science and writing are disciplines with the power to inspire and uplift, yet many young people face barriers to accessing opportunities that can nurture their skills and ambitions. By limiting eligibility to 14–16-year-olds from state-funded, non-selective schools, we aim to address systemic inequalities that exist within education. These schools often have fewer resources and opportunities available to their students compared to independent or selective schools. This focus reflects our commitment to supporting talented young people who are less likely to have access to extracurricular competitions and experiences that build their confidence and skills.

Addressing Your Concerns

We recognise that this eligibility criterion can be disappointing for some, particularly for students from independent schools who are passionate about science and writing. However, we believe that our targeted approach is the most effective way to fulfill the original purpose of the competition: to inspire and engage students who are underrepresented in both STEM and science communication.

We appreciate the enthusiasm and interest from students and teachers at all schools, and we encourage those who do not meet the eligibility criteria to explore other competitions and opportunities in science writing, many of which are open to a broader audience. We also remain committed to showcasing the best of British science writing through this award, with the hope that it inspires students and teachers across the educational spectrum.

Looking to the Future

We are continually evaluating the competition and its impact, and we value feedback from all those who engage with us. If you have further suggestions or ideas, please do not hesitate to get in touch – we welcome a constructive dialogue.

Thank you for your understanding and support as we work to create meaningful opportunities for young people from diverse backgrounds.