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SCIENCE CENTRES FOR OUR FUTURE: WHY THE UK MUST INVEST IN HANDS-ON STEM LEARNING
The campaign 'Science Centres for our Future' is calling for fairer funding for science and discovery centres across the UK.
“Dynamic Earth is such a vital resource, I don’t know how I would deliver this topic in such a great way without them” – Teacher feedback
Science and discovery centres play a crucial role in facilitating public engagement with science across the UK, helping inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators. Yet these centres face an uncertain future, and that’s why the campaign Science Centres for Our Future – spearheaded by the UK Association for Science and Discovery Centres (ASDC) – is calling for fairer funding across the sector.
ASDC is the national charity that unites the UK’s leading science engagement organisations, helping shape how people of all ages experience and learn about STEM: science, technology, engineering and maths. Dynamic Earth is a proud ASDC member, and is a major hub for science learning in Scotland’s capital and beyond, reaching remote, rural, underserved and underrepresented communities with tailored programming that breaks down barriers to participation.
Science and discovery centres are spread across all four nations of the UK, each playing a unique role in their communities. Last year alone, over 5.2 million people visited their local science and discovery centre. These visits weren’t just fun days out: they were transformative experiences that brought science to life through hands-on exhibits, interactive workshops, and real-world relevance.
However, science centres don’t operate in isolation. We build long-term partnerships with schools, families, universities, industry, local government, and media. We help scientists and researchers share their work with the public, and open doors to STEM careers for young people who might never have considered them.
THE FUNDING GAP
Despite their impact, science and discovery centres are largely excluded from public funding streams that support similar organisations – such as museums, libraries, and arts institutions. This lack of infrastructure support puts their future at risk, especially as they strive to meet growing demand and expand their reach.
THE CAMPAIGN FOR CHANGE
That’s where Science Centres for Our Future comes in. Spearheaded by ASDC, this bold campaign is calling on the UK Government to recognise science and discovery centres as essential parts of the nation’s scientific and cultural ecosystem. It urges policymakers to provide infrastructure funding on par with other publicly supported organisations, such as art galleries and museums.
Over the past 25 years, science centres have helped more than 110 million people engage with science. With greater support, they can do even more – helping the UK become a true science superpower and tackle the urgent challenges we face, from climate change to health innovation.
The time for science and discovery is now! Help protect the future of hands-on STEM learning by signing and sharing the open letter to government.
