Thousands of students attended immersive science events throughout October in West Cumbria.
Run by The Royal Institution, teams spent the first two weeks of October delivering 40 immersive science shows to around 7,000 students at schools from the Solway Coast to Millom.
The roadshow was organised by the React Foundation, which was set up in 2004 by Cleator Moor-based project management and engineering consultancy React Engineering.
Founded in 1799, The Royal Institution is an independent London-based charity dedicated to connecting people with science. This is the first time it has taken part in a roadshow of this kind.
React Engineering Managing Director Phil Redfern, who is a trustee of The Foundation, said the roadshow was intended to continue its work to make STEM subjects accessible to all.
He said: “The main aim was to bring a world-renowned cultural and educational institution directly into the heart of West Cumbria, offering an extraordinary science engagement experience for KS2 and KS3 pupils, their teachers, and local communities.
“Travelling to London to visit an organisation like The Royal Institution is very difficult for many of the youngsters who took part.
“We are so happy to have brought such high quality and inspiring teaching to towns, villages and remote rural areas.”
React Foundation began running an annual series of two-week science shows for students in West Cumbria in 2007.
But this year marks the first time the fortnight long format has returned since 2022, due to problems finding an organisation that could fulfil the required amount of shows.
Phil added: “It was fantastic to be back delivering our full programme and The Royal Institution team were outstanding, engaging young people across West Cumbria with their high energy, hands-on science.
“The reach across schools was greater than ever, and the impact on pupils, especially in our rural and underserved communities, was incredible to see.”
The science shows were led by experts from the Institution and involved hands-on experiments to explore different energy sources through activities such as launching rockets or using a Van De Graaff generator.
Teachers at the schools also took part in staff-focused sessions designed to build confidence and practical skills in teaching science.
Around 400 local people also attended a series of family-focused community events, consisting of experiments based around rocket science.
Rim Smith, Director of Science at Cockermouth School, said: “It was great to welcome the React Foundation KS3 Science Shows back again this year.
“The React Foundation science shows are always a fun event in our school calendar, and we are already looking forward to next year.”
Jenson McDonald, 11, from Whitehaven Academy, said: “The science show was really good. It made me see science in a new way and showed me that experiments can be really fun.”
Beth Ripper, a parent of a student at St Bega’s Primary, in Eskdale, said: “The React Foundation’s STEM outreach shows have definitely inspired some young minds in this household, although I’m slightly concerned they might try to set the bubble bath on fire now.”
The Royal Institution Roadshow was sponsored by long-term foundation supporter RWE, which operates the Robin Rigg offshore windfarm in the Irish Sea.
It also received £10,900 from Cumberland Council from the government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
The React Foundation are looking for sponsors for next year’s show.
