Cambridge Science Centre has launched a new two-year programme designed to inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers and planners through hands-on activities focused on the built environment.
Building a Better Future, which launched in April and runs until March 2027, has been developed in collaboration with industry partners to help young people better understand the planning, science and engineering behind the buildings and spaces around them.
The programme combines interactive exhibits, practical laboratory sessions, live demonstrations and school workshops, translating complex concepts used across construction and the built environment into engaging experiences for children and families.
Cambridge Science Centre has worked with lead partners Cambridge Growth Company and Trinity College, Cambridge, alongside organisations including Potter Raper, Bidwells, Cemex, Brockton Everlast, Barnes Construction, Cambridge Science Park, Cambridge Building Society, COEL and The Crown Estate. The latter has designed an energy networks cleantech exhibit specifically for the programme.
According to the science centre, the initiative represents a new approach to science communication by creating opportunities for children, families and industry leaders to engage directly, helping young people develop confidence and a stronger voice in shaping future communities.
Karen Clarke, of Cambridge Growth Company, said: “Everyone involved in place-making has the responsibility to ensure that young people get the space and the time to shape the kind of places and communities they live in and can be proud of. This is exactly what Building a Better Future aims to achieve and why we are pleased to be working with Cambridge Science Centre.”
Andrew Farrer, director of programmes and impact at Cambridge Science Centre, said hands-on experiences were central to inspiring long-term interest in science and engineering.
“It's curiosity and joy that drive immediate and lifelong engagement with science,” he said. “We draw on research partnerships and literature to build experiences that are exciting and practical in the moment – but are also critical steps on a pathway to passion, confidence, and ownership.”
The programme includes a series of themed laboratory sessions throughout the summer holidays, covering topics such as insulation, water infrastructure, habitats and ecology.
Building a Better Future is the latest in a series of long-term educational initiatives from Cambridge Science Centre. Planning is already underway for its next two-year programme, Your Smart World, which will explore artificial intelligence, quantum computing and the technologies behind everyday digital devices ahead of its planned launch in Easter 2027.
Cambridge Science Centre is also inviting organisations to become partners for the forthcoming programme as it looks to expand its reach and engage more young people with science, technology and engineering.
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Image credit: Cambridge Science Centre
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