Ever wondered how the courses come about ? Meet Shaun.
Hello, my name is Shaun Pollard, and I am the Education Coordinator and Trustee at Sherwood Observatory and Planetarium.
Education and Safeguarding has been at the heart of my career for over 40 years. I am a retired Executive Headteacher and former Assistant Principal at Portland College, with professional expertise in teaching, special educational needs, physics, and safeguarding children and vulnerable adults. Throughout my career, I have been passionate about helping young people and adults discover their potential through learning, especially STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths).
My connection with Sherwood Observatory began in 2002 when I joined as a member with my Father. Since then, I have been proud to contribute as a volunteer, particularly through our open days our Night School programme and STEM outreach activities. For the past 15 years, I have also served as a STEM Ambassador, delivering physics and space-related activities in schools, colleges, and some truly inspiring venues, including the Science Museum in London, Greenwich, the National Space Centre, and Jodrell Bank.
At the Observatory, I am currently developing our Key Stage 4 and Key Stage 5 educational programmes within the Planetarium, with a particular focus on
supporting GCSE and A-Level studies. I am also delighted that our latest Night School courses are now available, including our popular “First Steps” introduction to astronomy and the more advanced “Next Steps” programme for those looking to deepen their knowledge of the night sky. These courses focus on the Night Sky for the seasonal constellations, the Moon, the Solar System, Space Exploration (Sputnik to Artemis), Exoplanets, Deep Space, Spectroscopy and areas of specialist interest such as Radio Astronomy, Black Holes and Astrophotography.
Beyond astronomy and education, I have served as a School Governor for three decades across a range of schools and colleges, including ATTFE College and 18
years supporting Ashfield School and Kirkby Woodhouse School. I am also a Trustee of the Notts County Foundation and regularly provide free training and safeguarding advice to local charities and community interest companies.
Away from work and volunteering, I am fortunate to be married to the wonderfully patient and supportive Deb. I have three sons and, over the years, have welcomed dozens of foster children into our family. Looking ahead, we are hoping for crystal- clear skies during a safari in Africa this summer. Our retirement dream is to explore Europe by campervan—having already enjoyed adventures in Wales, and with Scotland and Northumberland planned for this year, we hope to venture across the Channel next year with binoculars and star chart in hand.
Whether you are taking your first steps into astronomy or are already an experienced observer, I wish you clear skies and many memorable nights under the stars.
Happy stargazing!