Behind the Scenes in Science: Our Terrific Technicians
Have you ever wondered who ensures that all the brilliant practical experiments in the Science Department run like clockwork?
Meet our five fantastic Science Technicians: Karen, Trevor, Sophie, Janet, and Liam. They are the driving force behind our science labs, which is essential to the success of our lessons, events, and science enrichment.
A Day in the Life of a Science Technician
Our technicians support every science lesson, preparing materials, setting up equipment, and making sure everything is safe and ready to go.
In Biology, Karen looks after practicals for GCSE and A level lessons, supports clubs like Dissection Society and BioTech Club, and plays a key role in large-scale events like the Science Fair and Science Week’s Bio Zone. Karen joined Bancroft’s in January 2020, bringing a wealth of experience from her previous roles at UCL’s Life Sciences Department and Highams Park School. She even began her career as a Quality Assurance and Microbiology Technician in a chocolate factory! “It’s very rewarding interacting with the students during their practical classes,” she says.
Trevor, our Physics Technician, joined Bancroft’s just under four years ago but has over two decades of experience as a science technician. His day is always varied: one moment he’s setting up a ripple tank, the next he’s repairing a circuit component or testing out new demonstration ideas. “No two days are quite the same,” he says. “I enjoy the hands-on nature of the job, and it’s great helping pupils explore and enjoy the subject.”
“I thoroughly enjoy working in the Science Department, it’s a joy coming into school every day.” (Janet)
Sophie and Liam work as Chemistry Technicians. Sophie, who became part of the team in May 2021, helps orchestrate the behind-the-scenes magic in Chemistry. “My day usually involves setting up equipment and preparing chemicals for lessons, making sure everything’s labelled, safe, and ready for the pupils to use.” Sophie also prepares everything from potion lessons during Harry Potter Week to supporting pupils in the Science Fair and helping run the brilliant Chemistry Show.
Liam joined in January 2025 and has quickly become a vital part of the Chemistry Department. “My days are varied but I am enjoying all of it, especially with the other technicians welcoming me in and helping me out when it’s needed.”
Janet, our longest-serving technician, has been at Bancroft’s for 18 years, supporting Junior Science lessons across Biology, Chemistry and Physics. She helps with experiments, maintains labs, and offers technical guidance to teachers and PGCE students alike. Her role also includes preparing lessons for the first year of GCSE Biology and Chemistry, as well as supporting the Junior Science Club, Open Days, the Science Fair, and Prep School visits.
What Makes the Role Rewarding?
Ask any of the technicians what they love about their job, and a theme quickly emerges: it’s the sense of purpose, the variety, and the moments of joy that come from watching science come alive for pupils.
“It’s so rewarding when a practical really clicks for them – when they suddenly see a concept they’d only read about before.” (Trevor)
“The Chemistry Show is definitely my favourite event, it’s theatrical and full of energy,” says Sophie. “I love being part of something that makes pupils’ eyes light up.”
They also appreciate the variety and creativity that the role allows. “I enjoy the extra enrichment, like the BioTech Club and Science Fair, where I get to know pupils better and help them dive deeper into science,” Karen shares. Liam adds, “I enjoy the variety, especially troubleshooting a tricky practical and figuring out how to make it work. That’s always a good feeling.”
For Janet, watching pupils grow year after year is what makes it special. “Knowing I’ve supported their learning journey along the way is something I’m really proud of.”
What Are the Challenges?
Of course, with hundreds of practicals and the unpredictable nature of science equipment (and reactions!), there’s plenty to juggle.
Some experiments need quick thinking or backup plans. “It is the inevitable washing-up of glassware (there is always so much!), and dealing with the assortment of strange smells,” says Sophie.
But the team is nothing if not resourceful. “You have to stay ahead of things,” says Janet. “Being flexible, staying calm, and supporting each other—that’s how we manage.”
“When something breaks, I often have to find a quick fix or alternative,” says Trevor. “But it’s satisfying when it works.”
Big events like Science Week also take coordination. “There’s a lot involved,” says Karen, “but when you see it all come together, it’s incredibly rewarding.”
A Supportive, Collaborative Team
The technicians all describe the Science Department as friendly, collaborative and supportive.
“We work together really well,” says Sophie. “Even though we each have our subject areas, we step in for each other when needed. And the teachers are fantastic, organised, easygoing, and always appreciative.”
“The other technicians have been so welcoming and supportive, that’s what makes a big difference.” (Liam)
Karen adds, “It’s a very busy section, but a very kind and enthusiastic one too.” Janet agrees: “There’s always someone to ask for advice, scientific or not.”
They all highlight the pleasure of working with pupils. “The pupils are enthusiastic, curious and polite,” says Trevor. “It’s a pleasure working with them.”
Karen, Trevor, Sophie, Janet and Liam – thank you for everything you do to keep our Science Department running smoothly. It has been wonderful to hear about your journeys and reflections.
