Schools

This venue is a discovery centre where everyone can experience Spectacular Science through the medium of interactive hands-on exhibits. 
Touch it and see what happens; investigate, learn and have fun!
The site was originally home to The Royal Observatory so we also offer a unique link with astronomy.

Our expanding education programme is suitable for all ages and abilities, incorporating bridge building workshops, telescope tours, science shows, team challenges and much more.
 
School visits require dedication from the teacher in charge and we strive to make this process as simple as possible. Bookings are taken over the phone removing unnecessary paperwork and detailed timetables are prepared for your day. Risk assessments, visit guidelines etc. are available to download from this web site.
 
We acknowledge the trust placed in us when you arrange a visit and in return we offer a science experience which will support past, present and future learning in the classroom.  The Centre has a dedicated team of enthusiastic staff and volunteers who are checked by the Criminal Records Bureau and many of whom are registered STEM Sussex Science and Engineering Ambassadors.

We endorse "Learning Outside the Classroom" and are proud to have been awarded The Quality Badge in December 2010.  This accreditation will help teachers, local authorities and families find locations providing high quality learning experiences outside the classroom in an environment that is safely managed.
 
2009 was "International Year of Astronomy" (IYA) and with the support of funding from the Science and Technologies Facilities Council (STFC) and The Royal Astronomical Society (RAS) we were able to add to our educational activities and to launch a Mobile Planetarium onto the outreach programme.

2011 was "International Year of Chemistry" (IYC) and with the support of funding we were able to add an amazing Chemistry Show and Chemistry Activity for KS1 and KS2.

If you are a teacher planning to bring a group to The Centre, whenever The Centre is open you can visit FREE OF CHARGE. This is the best way to ensure the visit is right for your pupils and is ideal for familiarisation of the site and to complete any risk assessments etc. prior to your visit.
 
At the entrance reception you will be asked to sign in and to show proof of status / confirmation of your booking (e.g. letter on school headed paper, union card etc).  If you visit with friends or family you will be asked to pay for their admission.

If you would like to be informed of new initiatives and special activities, then join our database.  Just send your details via the contact form below.