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Discover and Explore: A potential new science centre in York
What we are
We are a group of people from a variety of education-related backgrounds in the York area, exploring the possibility of establishing an interactive Science Centre in York. The project is at a very early stage, and the precise form of the project is still under discussion, but initial ideas indicate that it should be a hands-on centre aimed at everyone, but especially at children under 11, focussing on basic science, and possibly including temporary thematic exhibitions.
Initially this would be a pilot project, which we hope to expand in the future depending on funding.
We are currently 29 people; if you would like to join our group please contact us.
What we are doing
We ran a pilot project in York Guildhall as part of York Discovery Week (8-17 March 2002). The exhibition was open during the days (10-4 Tuesday to Saturday) for visitors and school parties. We had over 1,500 visitors during the week, about 250 of which were pre-booked school parties, the remainder members of the public who called in.
As well as MatheMagic, we had exhibits from the University of York, particularly the Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Psychology departments.
Next steps
We plan to develop funding for a mobile science centre. This would be a small bus (Dial-a-ride bus) refitted to carry some fixed exhibits in the back and crates etc. with more mobile exhibits. We would park in a school or next to a village hall or similar, and unload the crates into the hall, providing a two part exhibition. This would probably be staffed by three people, one to staff the van and two in the hall. We consider that this approach will allow us to alter the contents of the exhibition easily, so we can deliver themed materials at different times of the year to ensure that the delivery most closely needs the needs of the people that we are supporting.
For general information please