I had a joyful afternoon the other day, in a school in Wallasey, with some families who were watching a science show from one of the Ri’s fabulous presenters. The show was filled with spectacular demos – balloons popping, flames jumping towards the ceiling – and there were quite a few shrieks and gasps as a result. Naturally we were careful to throw in plenty of opportunities to learn too – about cells, bacteria, viruses and vaccines – because our Science in Schools shows are designed to support the science teaching curriculum. But mainly, the show was a chance for families to relax, to have fun, to enjoy being together, to experience surprise, wonder, curiosity and to share their delight in the science unfolding before them.
As the author Maya Angelou reportedly said, “People will forget what you told them, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel”.
This is crucially important for our work at the Ri. We want families to feel truly welcome – both at the Ri and in science more broadly. We welcome sticky fingers, muddy shoes, runny noses and brain-boggling questions about absolutely anything. We work hard to develop experiences that are full of joy and delight through mind-blowing facts, smelly explosions, and presentations full of giggles.
For young people (and their older family members!) who are curious about science, we enable access to world-class scientists who share their passion for science. Our talented speakers and presenters come from all walks of life to share stories from their research, and tips for studying and working in science – take a look at what’s coming up next.
And for families with an appetite for a more regular relationship with science, or any who just want to nurture their children’s (and their own!) curiosity with the world around them, we have a Family Membership offer that’s flexible enough to reflect the fact that no two families are the same suitable for families of all shapes and sizes.
This March, we’re bringing the curtain down on British Science Week in fitting fashion, with a Family event in our Theatre with TV’s fabulous Dr Emily Grossman, and a cosmic journey through the uncharted depths of space in our Theatre with award-winning science writer Brian Clegg, We’re also looking forward to a year of celebrating the rich heritage of science discovery and advance in the UK, to mark our own 225th birthday.
Whether you’re dipping a toe in for the first time or you’re already a family of science-lovers, Ri science is timeless and there will always be something to surprise and delight you at the Ri – in our Theatre, in schools around the UK, or online.
Katherine Mathieson is Director of the Royal Institution