Empowering through learning and engagement with science.

Glasgow Science Centre: Strategic Plan for 2020-2025 Foreword

The workplace is being reshaped by AI and Our approach is to create engaging, meaningful Our mission is to robotics with more predictable and routine work experiences with science. Experiences that are being automated. Creativity and critical thinking - inspiring and relevant. We want to do more in inspire everyone skills that are at the core of science and innovation, partnership with scientists and engineers from are becoming ever more valuable. academia, industry and the public sector, who bring passion and authenticity to those experiences. to explore and We will all have to develop these skills if we are to be successful in a world where science and Above all else we want to create a place where understand the technology are dominant. Our world also needs science, innovation and discovery can be celebrated, more creative and innovative thinkers as we look where people can come and experience awe and world around them to tackle global issues such as climate change, wonder at what we now know and understand about food sustainability, renewable energy, data security our world and our universe. This has the power to and to discover and and antimicrobial resistance. Engaging the widest enrich all of our lives. possible audience in science has never been more enjoy science. important to society. David Sibbald - Chairman Stephen Breslin - Chief Executive Officer At Science Centre we aim to inspire, Over the next five years, Glasgow Science Centre motivate and encourage people of all ages, abilities has a bold ambition to bring inclusion and diversity and social backgrounds to take the first steps to into everything that we do. From creating a develop the skills and confidence to participate more inclusive organisational culture to better fully in a society where science and technology understanding the needs and desires of a more are prevalent. diverse set of communities, we want to do more to help people of all ages and backgrounds This strategic plan (2020-2025) is set at a time discover their “inner scientist” and to develop of major disruption where many industries are the confidence and motivation to take the next undergoing exponential change. Advances in science step in the journey of learning and discovery. If and technology are creating many new opportunities we can achieve this we will open up a world of and they bring with them new challenges. opportunity for them.

2 3 Challenges in STEM Engagement

Public interest in science Those who work in Science, Technology, Engineering This challenge has led the head of ScotlandIS, and Maths (STEM) barely reflect the diversity of society. a trade association championing Scotland’s vital is as high as it has ever been This equality gap in Scotland means that only one digital technologies industry, to warn that without in five engineers in Scotland and a mere one in ten an impetus for training and retraining, the country - in the last 25 years. We are 2 senior managers in STEM are women. Disabled “will inhibit the growth, particularly of locally- also aware that the public people are also underrepresented, with only 5% of based technology companies, which has been engineers having a disablility, even though 16% of one of the successes in Scotland”. 7 thinks it is important for them working age adults are disabled.3 to know about science and If those “who do science” are not seen to be diverse, The rightly advocates that that they want to hear more or are of a particular stereotype, then it will likely act everyone should be able to develop a confidence from scientists.1 as a deterrent to people exploring careers within and understanding of STEM because it impacts on - STEM industries. As the Science and Technology “all employment types and careers and affects Glasgow Science Centre is pushing at an open door Committee at the UK Parliament makes clear - our daily lives”.8 when it comes to science engagement. However, as “scientists are still [seen as being] very brainy we encourage the public to walk through our doors, and are generally white, male and middle the challenges we face are broad and intricate. class. There is still more that could be done to challenge...that” .4 In spite of this strong interest in science, an attitudes to science survey reveals that the public still knows More urgently, in spite of Scotland’s highly skilled little about how scientists work and that there is little workforce and an economy that offers a range of trust in the sources delivering science news.1 opportunities for young people,5 there is a widening IT skills gap in our country that leads to around 10,000 IT vacancies going unfilled every year.6

5. skillsdevelopmentscotland.co.uk/media/43852/jobs-and-skills-in-scotland-2017-main-report.pdf 2. onescotland.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/What-we-already-know-STEM.pdf 6. gla.ac.uk/news/archiveofnews/2017/september/headline_546920_en.html 3. www.gov.uk/government/publications/disability-facts-and-figures/disability-facts-and-figures 7. bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-business-48034202 1. ipsos.com/ipsos-mori/en-uk/public-attitudes-science-2014 4. publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201617/cmselect/cmsctech/162/162.pdf 8. www.gov.scot/publications/stem-strategy-education-training-scotland-first-annual-report

4 5 Addressing these challenges

Glasgow Science Centre is Since we opened our doors in 2001, as part We’re also taking science out of our centre and of the Millennium Projects, we’ve been an across Scotland. Glasgow Science Centre On Tour an educational charity* that essential bridge between citizens and STEM. has been to schools in the Western and Northern We’ve inspired people of all ages to explore Isles. Our Community Engagement Programme, inspires and motivates people and understand the world around them, working which aims to build the confidence of learners, has to engage with science. Our alongside governments, academia, industry worked with people located in the areas of highest and other charities, to make Scotland a place deprivation in partnership with mental health work is supported by a not-for- where science and technology informs policy, charities, homelessness support groups, asylum profit visitor experience and empowers individuals, and enriches lives. seekers and senior citizen clubs.

other revenue streams with all We are a place of learning, creativity, curiosity, Today our work continues to be supported by our the income we generate being and fun, inspiring and empowering around half trustees, our people (staff and volunteers), our a million people every year, both inside and visitors, funders and donors. We are a unique reinvested to support our outside our amazing centre in , 5-star visitor experience, a valued community charitable purpose. on the banks of the Clyde. asset and a base for respected education, science communication and outreach programmes. Our state-of-the-art centre contains more than 450 interactive exhibits, a digital planetarium, a We want to sustain, expand, extend and diversify science show theatre, a teaching laboratory, an our audience by creating exciting experiences with IMAX cinema, and a maker space. science that are relevant and meaningful to people from diverse backgrounds and communities.

*Registered Scottish Charity no. SC030809

6 Key engagement statistics

6,000,000 108,000 visitors since opening in 2001. school travel grants for the most of visitors think Science Centres portray deprived areas of Scotland science more honestly than the media. since 2008.

1,070,000 18,700 60% engaged by our On Tour visitors to our Curiosity Live STEM strongly agree and 31% agree that programme across the UK. engagement events since 2017. we provide a high quality educational experience.

283,000 3,800 50% visitors to our digital visitors to our Autism of Science Communicators Planetarium since 2015. Friendly Sessions are female, and perceived since 2018. as ‘role models’ by visitors.

7 Engagement Platforms

Exhibitions and Experiences

The Big Explore! Explorer Space Zone

We are all scientists. Under 7s area. Water, music, Exploring the intriguing world of illusions, Exploring the night sky and the solar construction and more. a world where nothing is as it seems. system to connect with the cosmos.

SCIENCE SHOW THEATRE

Celebrating the wonders of space and Live, interactive science happening right Exploring the future of quantum imaging Raising awareness of the science astronomy.​ in front of you. technologies with QuantIC. and engineering behind a low carbon, affordable and secure energy future.​ Idea No59 The Lab

Raising awareness of the science, Celebrating the innovative spirit in all One of our specialist workshop areas for Raising awareness of the science that technology and processes of of us and how that spirit can change hands-on science. underpins human health and well-being.​ environmental science. the world.​ Outreach Training

Bringing science to you. Hands-on science behind human Explore the choices we all face in having Learn practical strategies to inspire health and well-being. energy that is affordable, secure and learners of all ages with your work. environmentally sustainable.

Cultural Events

A celebration of STEM innovation on our These special event days for early years are Adults only science events. Monthly sessions supporting visitors with Autism doorstep. packed with activities for curious wee minds

PINK FLOYD sci-fi sundays david elder

Exploring all that’s new and exciting in Immersive fulldome audio-visual experiences Science fiction films shown under the stars in A series of lectures on astronomy, astrophysics, astronomy on a Saturday evening. inspired by the music of Pink Floyd. our Planetarium. and space exploration supported by the University of Strathclyde. Case Study

BodyWorks takes you on an Since opening in BodyWorks on Tour preceded the exhibition interactive journey of the December 2015: in 2009 bringing exhibits, workshops and science shows to schools and communities human body and the science across Scotland who may not have access behind health and well-being. 1,800,000 total visitors to Glasgow Science Centre.

Take on the role of the snot 92% rated either excellent or good barrier, burn some energy in BodyWorks is supported by: the giant hamster wheel, 50% The Wellcome Trust, GlaxoSmithKline, Garfield perform a virtual autopsy and singled out BodyWorks as the Weston Foundation, The Roberston Trust, best aspect of their visit Scottish Enterprise, Bellahouston Bequest Fund, bust some moves at the DNA Commonweal Fund, W M Mann Foundation, disco. You’ll never look at your Endrick Trust, James Wood Bequest Fund, Brett 92% Family Foundation, The Physiological Society, body in quite the same way. said they had learned something AMW Trust, Medical Research Council.

We went to BodyWorks and we BodyWorks is an exceptional were disgusted by the effects of standard in terms of interpretive alcohol and smoking. learning and presentation.

- Cranhill Primary School - Visitor Feedback

10 Getting involved with the interactive aspects in the upper floor enabled me to take part in things with my child.

- Visitor feedback

11 Case Study

Energy underpins our modern Since opening in Powering the Future on Tour launched lives but there are difficult December 2015: in 2019 bringing exhibits, workshops and science shows to schools and communities choices to be made about across Scotland who may not have access how we will supply and use 1,200,000 total visitors to Glasgow Science Centre. energy in the future. Is our 92% energy affordable, secure and rated either excellent or good environmentally sustainable? 81% learned about different sources of energy Powering the Future explores Powering The Future is supported by: our energy options – from how The Scottish Government, OPITO, Scottish Enterprise, we can produce electricity and 75% SSE, EPSRC, National Grid, EDF Energy, Skills are now aware that we need to take Development Scotland, ScottishPower Energy fuels to how we can be smarter steps to consume less energy Network, and Doosan Babcock. with our use of energy.

Powering the Future is highly Talking directly to pupils and families impressive. A perfect match for at Glasgow Science Centre about the topic. This facility is excellent. the energy industry has been a really useful development for our staff.

- St Lukes High School - Charlotte Coulter Resourcing Consultant, SSE 12 (I have) never seen such an effective demonstration of a lot of these principles. Great to encourage policy making in science as well as research.

- Visitor feedback

13 Case Study

These events are an More than 12 Science Lates Science Lates have engaged a wide range opportunity for adults to events since 2017: of adult visitors with the following topics in an informal, open atmosphere: spend an innovative evening in the unique surroundings 9,000 total visitors Space Food & drink of Glasgow Science Centre. 93% Health & wellbeing Visitors can enjoy explosive would return to another event Gaming & coding science shows, planetarium Attraction

20% Our planet shows, live demonstrations, student and young apprentice interactive workshops and age-group Energy Sound & screen craft activities, as well as live 960 experts and researchers Inside your mind performances and more. engaging a unique audience Technology and innovation

All the Science Lates are so different, I would go to A good adventure every single one of them! and I learned as well.

- Visitor Feedback - Visitor Feedback

14 Fabulous atmosphere and staff were very interactive with everyone.

- Visitor feedback

15 Our Strategic Plans

Creating outstanding science Connecting people, industry Creating and adding value to engagement experiences. and academia. the learning communities of Goal: We will create outstanding experiences with Goal: We will become a highly visible and trusted Scotland. science that are relevant and meaningful to people of hub of activity, facilitating discussion about science Goal: We will establish ourselves as a first class all ages and backgrounds, that inspire, motivate and and technology, and a key strategic partner to learning resource for children and adults in our schools encourage learning and deeper engagement. academia, the public sector and industry to promote and communities by designing educational programs education, skills and policy. We will achieve this by: that are engaging, inspiring and accessible to all, We will achieve this by: regardless of background, age or gender. • Continuing to develop our exhibition, public, retail, café and outdoor spaces • Developing and extending our communications strategy We will achieve this by: • Continuing to develop our programming offer alone and to reach and engage larger and more diverse audiences • Continuing to develop, promote and embed our “Inspire with partners to bring science to life • Engaging with people through science festivals and and Challenge” approach to science education working in • Expanding our adult/evening programme including the events across Scotland partnership with local authorities, schools and teachers David Elder lecture series, Science and Planetarium • Developing our reputation as the go-to place where • Building upon and expanding our successful community Lates scientists can communicate their research to wider engagement programme and integrating community • Developing a programme of inclusive cultural science audiences learning and development values into all aspects of GSC events • Expanding our network of expert advisors from public, service delivery • Refreshing and expanding our outreach programme corporate and academic sectors through project specific • Identifying and developing partnerships with a small to include BodyWorks on Tour and Powering the Future advisory boards number of organisations that can help us deliver at scale on Tour • Expanding our presence (attending and speaking) at • Continuing to develop relationships with local authorities key public sector, corporate and academic events and to secure funding for free admission for all primary conferences school pupils • Developing our profile and voice on important science • Systematically collecting and measuring evidence of issues through a range of media channels impact and use this to build recognition and the credibility • Investing in our digital resources online and in the centre to of our learning programmes. engage with people in a more creative and innovative way • Creating a network of ambassadors that champion the centre and STEM 16 Creating a diverse and inclusive Creating an organisation that organisational culture. is financially sustainable. Goal: We will develop a diverse and inclusive Goal: We will take a business-like approach to environment that enables everyone to participate, everything that we do, generating insights, revenues contribute and be valued. and margins that allow us to sustainably deliver our charitable objectives. We will achieve this by: We will achieve this by: • Creating a diverse and aware staff and volunteer base through recruitment, development and training • Continuing to develop our offer for our commercial • Creating inclusive service delivery policies and practices operations including corporate events and retail • Developing a better understanding of our audiences and • Improving our understanding of our audiences to promote non-visitors individual and legacy giving • Promoting increased levels of diversity throughout • Maximising the return from corporate events, retail, café the staff and volunteer base across all areas of the and car parking organisation, including the Board of Trustees • Developing relationships with key partners who can help • Embedding positive inclusive thinking and behaviour to us take our product and service offerings to scale practices and actions across the business to better serve • Developing and marketing our Experience Design Service our audience needs • Developing a cultural change internal communications framework, establishing a baseline and enable reporting functions to be set up to allow impact measures to be monitored

17 Our funders and supporters

Glasgow Science Centre ASDC Imperial College London Scottish Funding Council AMW Trust Institutional Translational Scottish Government is extremely grateful for Aridhia Partnership Scottish Renewables the support from our BBC James Wood Bequest Fund Scottish Seabird Centre BEIS John Muir Trust ScottishPower current members, individual Bellahouston Bequest JP Morgan SEPA and corporate supporters Brett Family Trust Kirkudbright Development Trust SSERC Commonwealth Fund M Squared Lasers Skills Development Scotland and funders who share Developing the Young Workforce MathWorks Skyscanner our vision of Scotland’s Doosan Babcock Media Shop SSE EDF Medical Research Council STV STEM future. Edina Trust Merck Sunny Govan Radio Emerson Millennium Commission Sustrans We want to build on what we are doing and Endrick National Grid Thermofisher broaden our portfolio of funding to support our NHS TS Queen Mary core functions and continue to deliver activities Energy Skills Partnership and Clyde Trust UK Space Agency with real impact through new and mutually ERDF Nineveh Trust UKOOG beneficial relationships. ESPRC Garfield Weston Foundation OPITO University of We hope you will join us in empowering people GSC Endowment Fund Pacific Quay Powerboats University of to make a positive difference through learning Glasgow Caledonian University The Physiological Society and engagement with science. Prince’s Trust University of Strathclyde Glasgow Disability Alliance QuantIC University of the West of Scotland Glasgow Life RAISE Waverley Excursions Renewable UK Wellcome Trust Glasgow’s Leading Attractions The Robertson Trust West Dunbartonshire Council GlasgowLive Royal Academy of Engineering W M Mann Foundation GlaxoSmithKline Royal Navy Workers’ Education Association Heriot Watt University Royal Society of Chemistry World Energy Council Zero Waste Scotland Historic Environment Scotland RS Components Hugh Fraser Foundation Scottish Enterprise

18 19 Get in touch: Dr. Stephen Breslin | Chief Executive Officer [email protected]