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Science and Discovery Centres

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Science and Discovery Centres

Science and Discovery Centres are a vital part of the education system, help tackle inequalities through encouraging engagement from disadvantaged communities, and broaden access to careers in STEM to underrepresented groups such as women. They are key to our future innovation and research and development plans and, given the future of work and automation, they support jobs that are secure and ‘future fit’.  Science and innovation has never been more important than now as we see the benefits of science and importance of public science literacy in our response to the pandemic and as we look to the future challenges of climate change and how to rebuild a greener economy. 

For more information about Science and Discovery Centres, and to find your nearest one, please visit: https://www.sciencecentres.org.uk/

August 2021

It was great to meet with the UK Association for Science and Discovery Centres to discuss the amazing science and education programmes offered by their members and how the opportunities these centres provide can be replicated across the country, as part of our work preparing the detailed case to Government for recognition and support for SDCs and the services they provide. A particular treat for me was that the meeting was held at the Royal Institute, showcasing the best of UK science, from Michael Faraday’s laboratory to the state of the art facilities available for students today.

The UK is a world leader in science and research. Science is essential for solving all the key challenges we face, from health to the environment and technology. Encouraging young people to explore and get involved in science is vital to inspiring the next generation and I am delighted to be able to work with the ASDC and their amazing centres to help highlight the importance of science and the opportunities it presents.

Trilateral Ministerial Meeting

Following the Westminster Hall debate I was delighted that Education Minister Michelle Donelan arranged a trilateral meeting with Ministers from DCMS and BEIS on 28 June to discuss the importance of Science and Discovery Centres and how we can ensure ongoing support for their vital work. I was delighted that all three Government Departments recognise the important role of these Centres in addressing inequalities, celebrating our culture and scientific heritage, supporting schools and lifelong learning, and working with research and innovation centres to support skills development and our future workforce. However, it is precisely because of this diverse role and the many benefits, that these centres often do not 'fit' in any one bracket, or fall under the remit of one Department.

During the meeting, I agreed to work with the Association for Science and Discovery Centres to put forward a detailed case to the Government, to support and enhance existing centres and also extend access to the amazing benefits they offer to even more people across the country. Supporting education, enhancing opportunities for all, supporting our future workforce, and promoting a love of science! We have an incredible and rich history of scientific discovery in the UK, from Newton's laws of motion, the discovery of DNA, to the invention of the computer. Science and Discovery centres can be the spark that leads our children to be the scientists and engineers of the future, as well as being a great day out for all the family.

 

 

Westminster Hall Debate

I was delighted to secure a parliamentary debate on the role of Science and Discovery Centres in supporting education, which took place on Wednesday 24th March. As a huge science enthusiast myself I thoroughly enjoy the hands-on science these centres deliver. Given their multi-faceted role, not just enriching education but also culture, business and tourism, these Centres have not always met the criteria for support, and as with many charities and businesses have faced real challenges over the past year. I am therefore very grateful to the Education Minister, Michelle Donelan, for offering to work with me and representatives from DCMS and BEIS to further support these Centres so future generations can continue to experience the benefits they offer.

I offer my sincere thanks to the Association for Science and Discovery Centres and my Parliamentary colleagues for their support and contributions to the debate, a recording of which is available here.

 

 

News

Science and Discovery Centres: Westminster Hall Debate

Thursday, 25 March, 2021

I was delighted yesterday to highlight the role of Science and Discovery Centres and the importance of interactive science education in Parliament yesterday.

Dr Ben Spencer MP seeks greater support for schools

Dr Ben Spencer MP Seeks Greater Support for Schools

Friday, 15 January, 2021

Following a further meeting with school leaders earlier this week Dr Ben Spencer MP is calling for greater support for our schools and colleges, their students and staff to help them respond to the challenges of the pandemic.

MP calls on Government to Present Long Term Plan for Schools

Monday, 23 November, 2020

Today I met with school leaders from across Runnymede and Weybridge to discuss the challenges facing schools, their pupils and staff.

Amalgamation of Christ Church C of E Infant School and Englefield Green Infant School and Nurseries Confirmed

Amalgamation of Christ Church C of E Infant School and Englefield Green Infant School and Nurseries Confirmed

Wednesday, 11 November, 2020

The decision to create a new school, amalgamating Christ Church C of E Infant School and Englefield Green Infant School and Nurseries was yesterday approved by Surrey County Council. The decision comes following a consultation on the future of the schools.

Visit to Holy Family RC Primary School and Brooklands College

Schools Working Tirelessly to Provide Opportunities in the Midst of Challenge

Friday, 10 July, 2020

As the summer term is drawing to a close, staff, parents and children are looking forwards to the new school year now we know that schools and colleges will be able to reopen for all.

Dr Ben Spencer welcomes schools funding

Dr Ben Spencer MP welcomes additional schools funding in Runnymede and Weybridge

Tuesday, 7 July, 2020

Dr Ben Spencer MP has welcomed the announcement that schools in Runnymede and Weybridge will benefit from a share of the £434 million investment to expand classrooms, upgrade facilities and improve the education of children across the whole country.

Government announce multi-million pound investment in the future of UK science

Friday, 6 March, 2020

Today the Government announced a multi-million-pound investment in the future of UK science. This will help to secure our position as a global leader in science and support our next generation of world-leading scientists.

Supporting Apprenticeship Week

Friday, 7 February, 2020

This week marks Apprenticeship Week (3-9 February) and I attended the British Retail Consortium’s National Apprenticeship Week’s reception in Parliament.  I met with inspirational employers and apprentices highlighting the fantastic opportunities quality apprenticeship programmes can bring.

Delivering for Schools: Increased Per-Pupil Funding

Friday, 31 January, 2020

Ensuring all children have access to good education was one of my key election pledges. I’m proud the promise to increase school funding, to £5,000 for secondary pupils and £4,000 for primary pupils, is already being delivered with legislation laid in Parliament yesterday.

My Plan

  • Improve local train services
  • Supporting local schools and skills
    • Science and Discovery Centres
  • Clean up our waterways and protect our natural environment
  • Enhance access to health services and rebuild the Weybridge Health Centre
  • Reduce air and noise pollution, replace the concrete motorway
  • Scrap ULEZ expansion

Dr Ben Spencer MP for Runnymede and Weybridge

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