The Ri Masterclass programme opens young people’s eyes to the diversity of mathematics, engineering and computer science through series of interactive workshops across the UK. Our workshop leaders each share their enthusiasm and experience in a Masterclass workshop based around their own favourite extra-curricular topic. They help nurture curiosity and a sense of inquiry among the Masterclass students, enabling them to explore ideas and applications of these far-reaching subjects and continue their interest and engagement into later life.
At this training event you will gain an overview of some of the essential skills needed for creating and delivering an Ri Masterclass. This event is aimed at those interested in public engagement/outreach who would like to get involved in the Masterclass programme, as well as existing Masterclass speakers who would like to extend their skills or design a new workshop. If you would like to find out more about the programme, but are not sure if you would like to get involved, please contact us or attend one of our taster events. This event is part of our Masterclass Speaker Development Programme; find out more about becoming a Masterclass speaker and our development programme.
Speakers come from a wide variety of backgrounds, all sharing a love of their subject and an enthusiasm for sharing it with young people. We particularly encourage those who are under represented in STEM fields across all dimensions of diversity to get involved – it’s crucial for the Masterclass students to meet a range of workshop leaders who bring different perspectives and experiences to the programme. We will support potential contributors to get involved in whatever way suits them and at their own pace.
If you would like to visit a local Masterclass series in advance of the training or want to volunteer as a helper, please get in touch: masterclasses@ri.ac.uk. You can also see here for details of more training and taster events across the UK.
This training day is free. If the cost of travel is a barrier to attending, or if you have additional costs due to an accessibility need, please get in touch as we have a number of bursaries we can offer towards these costs.
Training Day overview
In the morning participants will act as a ‘helper’ for part of a Masterclass workshop taking part at the Ri, working with existing Masterclass speakers and students. You will gain an insight into the format of the sessions and one person’s approach to delivering their workshop.
During the rest of the training day we will take you through some of the skills needed and key factors to consider when creating and delivering Masterclass workshops. This will include sessions focusing on presentation skills, classroom management, content development and inclusivity in a Masterclass setting.
Part of this training will focus on the initial development of your own workshop. You should aim to have an initial idea to bring to this session. This idea does not need to be fully formed, but you should have some suggestions for a topic you would like to cover and considered some potential activities that the students may be able to take part in during the Masterclass workshop. You will receive guidance on turning this idea into a working Masterclass as well as time to discuss and share ideas with your peers and Masterclass team representatives. Be prepared to give input and feedback into other speakers' ideas as well as receiving feedback on your own.
If you do not have any ideas for a topic or would like a starting point, you could consider adapting one of our “Off-the-Shelf” Masterclasses, or get in touch to discuss where you might be able to find existing resources to work from. Please ensure you research your potential topic prior to attending this training. Contact the Masterclass team before the training session if you need any additional guidance and support.
Key information:
Please arrive from 9:15 for a prompt 9:30 start; the Masterclass sessions will start at 10:00. Lunch and tea/coffee/refreshments will be provided, with lunch at approximately 12:45.
Please note that this event is for those aged 18+. Any 16 and 17 year-olds who are interested in getting involved with the programme as speakers or helpers should get in touch with us to discuss the options.
If you have any questions about the training day please get in touch. The training day will be led by members of the Ri Masterclass team. The Masterclass workshops will be led by existing Masterclass speakers.
By booking to attend events at the Royal Institution, you confirm that you have read and agree to the Ri's event terms and conditions.
