ASE Reception

The ASE Reception (formerly known as the Members Reception) is an open event for everyone, whether you are an ASE Member or not - it's an opportunity to say hello and network with others after an inspirational first day at Conference. Join us for a glass of bubbly to celebrate the ASE! The ASE Books of the Year winners will also be announced, as well as the CASTME awardees. We look forward to welcoming everyone on Thursday evening of 2026. Everyone is invited to have their first drink, compliments of the ASE. A PAYG will remain open for the evening until 21.30 for continued networking and socialising. The Alexander Award: The Alexander prize is awarded annually, to a woman or group that includes women who has made a significant contribution to the scientific, technological, engineering or mathematical (STEM) education of girls or women, in situations of scarce resources. It is granted in memory of Sir Norman Alexander, a physicist who held various roles in Nigeria, Ghana, Mauritius, Botswana, Lesotho and Swazliand. Sir Norman was married first to Elizabeth Alexander a pioneering scientist herself who carried out research in radar, geology, and tropical soils and then, after her death to Constance Geary, chief women education officer in Northern Nigeria. Mary Alexander, Sir Norman's daughter established the award in Sir Norman’s name, for women and girls in recognition of the pioneering working carried out by his wives and daughter. The  Findel CASTME Awards:  CASTME’s mission is to raise the general level of STEM education in commonwealth countries and beyond. They support and promote education at all levels, working in partnership with schools, colleges, civil society organisations and industry across the world. Their awards scheme recognises innovation, awareness raising, and sustainability across science education. Awards this year are: Findel CASTME Education Award – for projects with innovative approach to increasing STEM awareness Findel CASTME Protect Our Planet Award for a project that focuses on sustainable development goals Findel CASTME Community Award – for community projects focused on carers and children raising awareness of stem in the community CASTME Stem & Literacy Award – project focused on stem and literacy CASTME Ling Educational Engineering Award – awarded in memory of Jonathan Ling who was a CASTME Trustee for many years CASTME Commendation