Cambridge Science Centre celebrates new home at Science Park

09 Jul, 2024
Newsdesk
Cambridge Science Centre's much-anticipated new venue at Cambridge Science Park will officially open its doors on the first day of the summer holidays, 23 July, inviting young children and their families to explore a world of discovery through open-ended, hands-on exhibits.
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Greg Foot, TV and Radio Presenter and Producer at Cambridge Science Centre. Credit – Keith Heppell / Cambridge Science Centre.

Last week saw a celebratory launch event as the new space was opened by award-winning TV and Radio Science Presenter and Producer Greg Foot.

The new centre aims to and will ignite curiosity and cultivate a love for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) from an early age. Its reach extends beyond Cambridgeshire, aiming to engage young minds and their families across the region and beyond.

The launch event was a testament to the reputation and impact of Cambridge Science Centre to date, with a vibrant gathering of over 130 friends, supporters, and funders, many of whom have been instrumental in bringing this vision to life.

David Cleevely, outgoing Chair of the Board of Trustees, said: “We are thrilled to unveil this incredible space dedicated to igniting young minds with the wonders of science.

“This centre is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team and we are deeply grateful to our generous funders for this project – Arm, LifeArc, Brockton Everlast and Trinity College – plus the incredible support of our ongoing Executive Council members, for making this dream a reality.”

Cambridge Science Centre outgoing Chair of Trustees, David Cleevely with incoming Chair, Harriet Fear. Credit – Keith Heppell / Cambridge Science Centre.

CEO John Bull underscored early STEM education's pivotal role in shaping the future: “At the core of our mission is the belief that introducing STEM concepts to children at a young age can ignite a lifelong passion for learning and discovery.

“With its engaging environment, this new Centre provides families with a platform to explore and learn together, nurturing the next generation of innovators and problem-solvers."

Former Diplomat Harriet Fear, incoming Chair of Trustees, added: "As we look to the future, it’s hugely important for me to acknowledge the incredible contributions of our outgoing Chair, David Cleevely and Dr Chris Lennard, founding CEO of this wonderful organisation.

“Their vision and dedication have been instrumental in reaching this milestone. The Board of Trustees, team and I are very excited to build on this legacy and continue to provide inspiring educational experiences for our community.”

The Cambridge Science Centre, with its unique blend of interactive exhibits and engaging workshops, is now open for school visits during weekdays. Students can enjoy a comprehensive visit that includes a workshop and the freedom to explore new and expanded exhibits.

Moving forward, the centre will be open to schools during term time and to the public on weekends and during school holidays.Specialised groups such as STEMtots and sessions for home-educated children will be introduced from September, offering a unique and enriching educational experience.

Having reached half a million young people in its first 10 years, Cambridge Science Centre remains the only space in East Anglia to offer STEM-focused family experiences from this new location within the world-renowned Cambridge Science Park.