Cambridge Science Centre

Cambridge Science Centre is a UK-based independent charity dedicated to Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) engagement. It operates with the mission to inspire children and young people to develop a lifelong love of science through innovative, hands-on, and interactive activities. Registered as charity number 1146349, the Centre aims to break down barriers to STEM education by reaching diverse communities and offering accessible educational experiences.

Overview

The Centre focuses on making science fun and friendly, engaging young audiences with the help of enthusiastic Communicators who deliver energetic presentations and activities designed to capture the imagination of children of all ages. Their approach not only sparks curiosity about scientific concepts but also fosters self-belief and encourages young people to consider further education and careers in STEM fields.

Activities and Outreach

Cambridge Science Centre is notable for its outreach efforts, taking exhibits and activities beyond its physical location into schools, community centers, and other venues such as town halls, churches, and sports halls. This outreach model enables the Centre to engage with a broad and diverse audience, including underserved communities.

• Since its foundation, the charity has engaged over half a million people.
• In 2023 alone, it reached 60 schools and 8,846 pupils through outreach programs.
• It hosted 36,681 young people and families at various pop-up venues in Cambridge.
• The Centre also supports early childhood STEM learning, engaging 6,367 toddlers and their carers at its STEM Tots Centre.
• Through the "STEM in the Fens" project, it reached 9,105 young people and adults in the underserved Fenland area[2][3].

Facilities

The Cambridge Science Centre is located at the Trinity Centre, Cambridge Science Park. It opened a new Science Centre facility on 23 July 2024. The venue welcomes family visits during school holidays and weekends throughout term times, alongside weekday visits from school groups during term dates. The Centre hosts STEM-themed exhibitions and programmes that showcase some of the best science and technology from Cambridge and around the world[4][5].

Impact

The Centre's work is instrumental in inspiring broader public participation in STEM topics, particularly among young people who might not otherwise have access to quality science education. By providing practical, hands-on experiences and fostering inclusive learning environments, Cambridge Science Centre contributes significantly to the promotion of STEM education and awareness in the UK[3][4].

This article summarizes the key aspects of the Cambridge Science Centre as an educational charity focused on STEM engagement for children and young people in the UK.

[1] https://www.cambridgesciencecentre.org [2] https://www.cambridgesciencecentre.org/about/ [3] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/5026697 [4] https://www.museums.cam.ac.uk/museums/cambridge-science-centre [5] https://www.cambridgenetwork.co.uk/directories/companies/2589