Funding for science centres

Scotland’s science centres welcomed more than 700,000 visitors in 2017, Deputy First Minister John Swinney announced as he committed £2.6 million funding for the coming year.

Figures show footfall to the centres in Aberdeen, Dundee, Edinburgh and Glasgow has continued to grow year on year. 190,000 visitors came from pre-schools, schools, colleges and universities, including 40,000 supported visits involving schools in more deprived and rural areas. 

Speaking ahead of a visit to Dundee Science Centre to see the new Medical Marvels exhibition and science learning suite, Mr Swinney said:

“Scotland is the only part of the UK to provide annual support to science centres,  ensuring they can continue to introduce science to new audiences. It is fantastic to see continuing growth in visitor numbers, due in no small part to the range of interactive events on offer to attract people of all ages as well as evenings for adults, themed takeovers and local community-led activities

“The science centres also have an important role to play in delivering our STEM Education and Training Strategy. I am pleased that we will continue to work together to achieve our shared goal of supporting people’s engagement with science, technology, engineering and maths throughout their lives.”

Scotland’s Chief Scientific Adviser Professor Sheila Rowan said:

“Science, technology, engineering and maths impact on our lives every day, and science centres are great places to find out more. Through hands-on exhibitions, workshops and events, people of all ages can explore science and keep learning about our world and beyond.”

Background

STEM education and training strategy

The Scottish Government will provide a total of £2.625 million in 2018/19 to the four Scottish Science Centres: Aberdeen Science Centre, Dundee Science Centre, Dynamic Earth, Glasgow Science Centre.

 Visitor numbers 2017 – 723,472

Visitor numbers 2016 – 692,352

Visitor numbers 2015 – 670,695