News

Science in the summer!

Published on 16 July 2021

Local children are being offered a special experience over the summer holidays in the first ever Dundee Science Centre STEM summer club.

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Each week, a different pre-selected set of 20 children will enjoy a packed programme of workshops and activities created by the University of Dundee and the Science Centre.

As well as exploring the recently transformed attraction, youngsters will design and build amazing contraptions using a range of materials, make their own science snacks, learn about forensics, make slime, and get to grips with dino rocks and fossils!

The club, aimed at children from primaries one to seven, is open to children referred by local community groups and children of University of Dundee staff members and postgraduate students who have had serious challenges maintaining research momentum due to the Covid-19 pandemic.  

Professor Nicola Stanley-Wall, Academic Lead for Public Engagement in the School of Life Sciences believes the club will be a fantastic support for students – “Covid-19 presented serious challenges for the University community, particularly research staff and postgraduates.  With labs closed or restricted to essential work only, many scientists were unable to progress their research. That, coupled with months of schools being closed and restrictions affecting childcare and family support, has had a major effect and created some significant setbacks. This holiday club is a prime example of the University and Science Centre coming together, allowing staff and postgraduates some dedicated time to focus on their research while their children have well-deserved fun.”

Rebecca Duncan, Head of Development added, “We are absolutely delighted to host these STEM Clubs which support our local scientists, particularly those who were adversely affected by the pandemic, alongside some of the most deserving children living within our communities.  It’s been a tough year for families and the clubs will offer a brilliant, fun week for all. It’s also fantastic that the activities they’re enjoying are based around local research, highlighting the relevance of research to each one of us.”

The STEM Club is funded by the Wellcome Institutional Strategic Support Fund awarded to the University of Dundee.

While the STEM summer club is by invitation only, the Dundee Science Centre is open daily from 10am until 5pm from Saturday 26 June 2021. Tickets must be booked in advance.   

For more information and to book, visit http://www.dundeesciencecentre.org.uk/

Enquiries

Press Office, University of Dundee

press@dundee.ac.uk