An education expert from Bristol is in demand all over the country after teaming up with a local firework company to give lessons with a bang.
Former Teachers TV presenter Matthew Tosh from Totterdown, has combined his background as a science teacher and his work as a pyrotechnician for firework company Skyburst, to create exciting and engaging demonstrations on how fireworks work.
Matthew now travels the length and breadth of Britain, giving lectures and talks at schools, science fairs and exhibitions with the support of industry experts Skyburst.
Matthew, who developed his firework-based presentations while teaching at Chew Valley School said: “I don’t have a standard lecture, which is why I think my sessions are so popular; each one is tailored to the audience.
“I can take a subject such as mathematics, physics or chemistry and apply it to fireworks and theatrical stage effects, which really engages audiences and helps to communicate the theories. It’s learning with a difference.
“As far as I know, I am the only person in the country doing anything like this and linking it to the curriculum, which means I am in demand all over the place; it’s fantastic. I always say a flame test will never be the same again once you see one of my demonstrations, and the schools I have been to tend to agree!
“I also teach children the health and safety side of fireworks but it’s not only young people I present to, adults also want to know what goes on behind-the-scenes. I presented the main show at a recent science event for young adults in Newcastle and I have just been invited to the British Science Festival in September.
“For many audiences it’s a wonderful example of science and the performing arts coming together.”
Matthew, has also provided consultancy, and the occasional guest appearance on programmes for the BBC, Sky and ITV.
Skyburst has a history of providing professional firework displays which dates back over 30 years. Based in the South West but operating across the whole of the UK, Skyburst has delivered major displays including the Bristol Balloon Fiesta, Brixham Festival, Bridgewater Carnival and the Tall Ship Race.
Skyburst managing director Alan Christie said: “Matthew began working for us six and a half years ago and we realised there was a gap in the market for demonstrations of this kind. Matthew is such an enthusiastic and infectious presenter that it seemed perfect.
“He began with some school talks and a recent demonstration at At Bristol and it’s just grown from there. We supply Matthew with the materials for indoor and outdoor demos and support with our specialist team, meaning anyone who books can be assured of full public liability insurance and a professional service.”
To find out more about Matthew visit his website at www.matthewtosh.com
If you would like more information about Skyburst or to book a display with them visit www.skyburst.co.uk or call 0800 0744636.
ENDS 11 April 2012
