Cheshire Freemason Philip Rose has been recognised in the 2025 New Year's Honours list with the prestigious award of an MBE for his outstanding services to Children's Science Education. Philip is an active member of Massada Lodge, who currently meet in Knutsford.
This honour acknowledges Philip's profound and positive impact on inspiring countless children with a love of learning, particularly in the fields of science and technology. His vision of hands-on teaching led him to set up SciTech in 1991 with the aim to amaze very young children with hands-on science. The core belief is that children learn by doing! Diagnosed with dyslexia later in life, Philip understands the unique challenges faced by students with learning differences. He incorporates innovative teaching methods at SciTech to ensure all children, regardless of their learning style, can thrive in the stimulating and inclusive environment he creates. Philip said that the values of integrity, friendship, respect and service which are at the very core of Freemasonry, were activated within him through his membership of Freemasonry. The same values that set up SciTech and became part of its ethos.
Three decades later, SciTech has been, and continues to be, a huge success and has gained much popularity, the telling fact being that 80% of the children at a SciTech event will have been to at least one other event before, and the majority of its staff were once children at SciTech.
On receiving the news, Philip expressed his heartfelt gratitude:
"I am surprised, honoured, and humbled to learn that I have been included in the New Year's Honours list. While this award is bestowed upon me, it truly reflects the incredible support I have received from my wife, Amy, and the numerous individuals who have shared my vision of educating young children. These dedicated individuals, including my Masonic colleagues, have joined me, worked alongside me, and provided unwavering support as we strive to achieve this vision".
When asked if this recognition constitutes a reward for his work, Philip humbly stated:
"It is not. My true reward lies in witnessing the joy and enthusiasm of the children with whom I have had the privilege to work. Many of these children have now embarked on successful careers as scientists and educators themselves. This award serves as a recognition that I gladly dedicate to all those who have supported and enabled me on this journey."
The Freemasons of Cheshire extended their warmest congratulations to Philip on this remarkable achievement. His dedication to inspiring young minds brings immense pride both to his lodge in particular and to the Masonic community in general.
