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Association for Science and Discovery Centres (ASDC)

@sciencecentres.bsky.social
185 followers 170 following 104 posts

Working together with the UK's science centres and museums to make science accessible, inclusive and valued as part of our everyday lives. Website: www.sciencecentres.org.uk

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Association for Science and Discovery Centres (ASDC) @sciencecentres.bsky.social · 06/10/2026
The ASDC October newsletter is out! Announcing our #ASDC26 Lightning Talk speakers, welcome to new trustee Sue Wardle, CEO @techniquest.org, and upcoming free networking events for Education + Community teams (Nov) and Marketing + Comms teams (Dec) Register now 👇 mailchi.mp/sciencecentr... #SciComm
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Association for Science and Discovery Centres (ASDC) @sciencecentres.bsky.social · 28/09/2026
ASDC Conference 2026: Who cares about science? Last chance to buy your tickets! Deadline - 29th Sept. www.sciencecentres.org.uk/asdc-nationa... Explore the full programme asdc2026.sched.com #ASDC26 #ScienceCentresForOurFuture #SciComm #ScienceAndDiscovery #STEM
sciencecentres.org.uk
ASDC Conference 2026: Who cares about science?
ASDC Conference 2026: Who cares about science?
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Association for Science and Discovery Centres (ASDC) @sciencecentres.bsky.social · 22/09/2026
We also thank Bipon Bhakri, Bridget Holligan and Gareth McTiffin for their valuable contribution to ASDC during their time as trustees. Are you interested in supporting ASDC’s work? Please get in touch info@sciencecentres.org.uk #ScienceEngagement #STEM #ScienceCentresForOurFuture
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Association for Science and Discovery Centres (ASDC) @sciencecentres.bsky.social · 22/09/2026
Following our AGM, we welcome Sue Wardle CEO @techniquest.org to the ASDC Board, with continuing trustees John Bull, Jo Quinton-Tulloch and Laurence Butler working with fellow trustees to support ASDC’s ambition for the UK's science and discovery sector. www.sciencecentres.org.uk/news/asdc-ce...
sciencecentres.org.uk
ASDC celebrates commitment and welcomes new perspectives
ASDC celebrates commitment and welcomes new perspectives
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Association for Science and Discovery Centres (ASDC) @sciencecentres.bsky.social · 01/09/2026
Great! Let us know what they think, and good luck with those questions 🗨️💬🗨️
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Association for Science and Discovery Centres (ASDC) @sciencecentres.bsky.social · 25/08/2026
What if the question isn’t whether people care about science, but why, when and who gets to care? These questions run right through the #ASDC26 programme - now live! sciencecentres.org.uk/asdc-nationa... 14-15th Oct @techniquest.org #ScienceEngagement #SciComm #PublicEngagement #STEMconference
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Association for Science and Discovery Centres (ASDC) @sciencecentres.bsky.social · 19/08/2026
The fight to protect @jodrellbank.bsky.social's telescope has shone a light on the UK's 28 science and discovery centres facing a £180m infrastructure challenge over the next 5 years. Richard Morrison @thetimes.com examines what’s at stake for hands-on science www.thetimes.com/culture/art/...
thetimes.com
Are we really going to abandon Jodrell Bank and the Eden Project?
The famous Cheshire observatory is one of several science centres around the country that face imminent disaster due to buck-passing by the government
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Association for Science and Discovery Centres (ASDC) @sciencecentres.bsky.social · 18/08/2026
Our August newsletter is out! Featuring a first-look at this year's ASDC Conference programme 👀 mailchi.mp/sciencecentr...
mailchi.mp
Conference special: Programme & keynotes revealed | Apply for a bursary | Sept ASDC events
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Reposted by Association for Science and Discovery Centres (ASDC)
Museums Association @museumsassociation.org · 03/08/2026
News | Updated safeguarding guidance addresses generative AI concerns Kids in Museums offers advice on using images of children on websites and social media
museumsassociation.org
Updated safeguarding guidance addresses generative AI concerns - Museums Association
Kids in Museums offers advice on using images of children on websites and social media
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Association for Science and Discovery Centres (ASDC) @sciencecentres.bsky.social · 03/08/2026
Shaaron Leverment, Chief Executive, ASDC said: "Government ambition to broaden participation in STEM without investment is pure aspiration." With comments from @glasgowscience.bsky.social, @scienceatlife.bsky.social, Centre for Alternative Technology in Wales and W5 in Belfast.
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Association for Science and Discovery Centres (ASDC) @sciencecentres.bsky.social · 03/08/2026
Yesterday's Daily Express coverage highlights our call for fairer funding for the UK's science and discovery centres - organisations that inspire millions of people with science every year but receive no dedicated public funding.
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Association for Science and Discovery Centres (ASDC) @sciencecentres.bsky.social · 03/08/2026
Science and discovery centres are making headlines: Plea to @andyburnham.bsky.social to save science centres which attract over 5 million visitors a year. www.express.co.uk/news/uk/2234... #ScienceCentres #DiscoveryCentres #ScienceEngagement #Innovation #STEM #ScienceForEveryone
express.co.uk
Plea to Andy Burnham to save science centres facing £180 funding black hole
Plea to PM to save science centres which attract more than five million visitors a year.
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Reposted by Association for Science and Discovery Centres (ASDC)
BIG - STEM Communicators Network, UK @big-stem-network.bsky.social · 30/06/2026
VOTE FOR OUR NEXT COMMITTEE Read about the candidates who have stepped forward to be our new Chair, Vice-Chair, Secretary, Treasurer and General Officers and cast your votes to elect our new committee before midday 16 July. forms.gle/4zauagKk6fyu...
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Association for Science and Discovery Centres (ASDC) @sciencecentres.bsky.social · 29/06/2026
If that's piqued your interest, you can find out more and explore ticket options here: www.sciencecentres.org.uk/asdc-nationa...
sciencecentres.org.uk
Tickets for ASDC26
Tickets for ASDC26
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Association for Science and Discovery Centres (ASDC) @sciencecentres.bsky.social · 29/06/2026
"[My biggest takeaway is that] we are part of a wonderfully supportive network, where everyone is welcoming and happy to share their experiences. It was happiest conference I've ever been to!”
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Association for Science and Discovery Centres (ASDC) @sciencecentres.bsky.social · 29/06/2026
"The conference is always energising and gives me hope that it's not just us facing the struggles that we're facing - and that other centres also have the same priorities and are striving for the same goals we are."
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Association for Science and Discovery Centres (ASDC) @sciencecentres.bsky.social · 29/06/2026
Attendees at last year's event said: "I was reminded of just how many incredible and (genuinely) inspiring colleagues I have the privilege of working with as part of the sector and made some great new connections ... it felt great to have chats about how we could support each other."
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Association for Science and Discovery Centres (ASDC) @sciencecentres.bsky.social · 29/06/2026
🎟️ Early bird rate for #ASDC26 closes TOMORROW 🎟️ This is your last chance to save £35 per ticket for the ASDC Conference 2026, as our early bird rate closes at 5:30pm tomorrow (30th June)! Find out more and buy tickets here: www.sciencecentres.org.uk/asdc-nationa... Unsure about coming? Read on ⬇️
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Association for Science and Discovery Centres (ASDC) @sciencecentres.bsky.social · 16/06/2026
Full support from ASDC for this call to halt funding cuts to astronomy and particle physics research.
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Association for Science and Discovery Centres (ASDC) @sciencecentres.bsky.social · 15/06/2026
🚨 Last chance to submit your proposals for #ASDC26! 🚨 If you want your idea to be part of our conference programme this October, you only have until 5:30pm on this Wednesday 17th June to submit your ideas! Go go go: www.sciencecentres.org.uk/asdc-nationa...
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Association for Science and Discovery Centres (ASDC) @sciencecentres.bsky.social · 10/06/2026
Find out more about 'Demystifying AI' including the case study and evaluation reports - www.sciencecentres.org.uk/projects/dem...
sciencecentres.org.uk
Demystifying AI
Demystifying AI
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Association for Science and Discovery Centres (ASDC) @sciencecentres.bsky.social · 10/06/2026
"The programme has provided valuable insights into how science centres can support public understanding of AI and contribute to broader conversations around emerging technologies." Dr Kerem Osman Çubuk, Digital Theatre Producer & Astronomy Communicator, Armagh Observatory & Planetarium
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Association for Science and Discovery Centres (ASDC) @sciencecentres.bsky.social · 10/06/2026
"The intimacy of having conversations with the experts was great. Superb event, learnt so much about AI." Thinktank Late participants, Birmingham "I didn’t realise AI was more than just LLMs." Visitor’s reflection after Demystifying AI event at W5, Belfast
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Association for Science and Discovery Centres (ASDC) @sciencecentres.bsky.social · 10/06/2026
As conversations about AI continue to gather pace across research, policy and industry, a key challenge remains: how do we ensure public understanding, trust and agency keep pace with AI? 'Demystifying AI' was funded by @ukri.org overseen by the Science and Technology Facilities Council.
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Association for Science and Discovery Centres (ASDC) @sciencecentres.bsky.social · 10/06/2026
This #LondonTechWeek we're asking 'how does the public really feel about AI?' Find out in the latest national science engagement programme run by 15 of the UK's science centres, museums and outreach organisations www.sciencecentres.org.uk/news/how-doe... #AISummit2026 #AIforGood #SciComm
sciencecentres.org.uk
Over 70,000 people explore artificial intelligence through national ‘Demystifying AI’ programme
Over 70,000 people explore artificial intelligence through national ‘Demystifying AI’ programme
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Association for Science and Discovery Centres (ASDC) @sciencecentres.bsky.social · 08/06/2026
If you have an idea for a conference session, head to our website to find out more and submit your proposal: www.sciencecentres.org.uk/asdc-nationa...
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Association for Science and Discovery Centres (ASDC) @sciencecentres.bsky.social · 08/06/2026
🤝 STEM skills and careers pathways – partnerships with education, industry and research ❓The role of science centres and museums in a changing society – what's next for the sector? 💸 The funding gap – delivering impact and value whilst adapting to changing landscapes
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Association for Science and Discovery Centres (ASDC) @sciencecentres.bsky.social · 08/06/2026
🤔 Trust and truth – tackling misinformation and information overload 🗓️ Science in daily life – health, environment and local communities 👥 Science for everyone – inclusion, removing barriers, youth voices and co-creation
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Association for Science and Discovery Centres (ASDC) @sciencecentres.bsky.social · 08/06/2026
The ASDC Conference 2026 is coming to Techniquest in Cardiff on 14th - 15th October. This year, within the broader 'Who cares about science?' theme, the six key areas we're looking to cover are...
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Association for Science and Discovery Centres (ASDC) @sciencecentres.bsky.social · 08/06/2026
📢 Call for submissions! 📢 Passionate about public engagement, science communication or the informal science education sector? Got an idea for a conference session on the theme of 'Who cares about science?' We want to hear from you! ⬇️
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Association for Science and Discovery Centres (ASDC) @sciencecentres.bsky.social · 01/06/2026
The awards launch this Wednesday 3rd June at our online event. Come along to hear more about the awards and nomination criteria from our sponsor and a member of the judging panel. ASDC members can register here: www.sciencecentres.org.uk/events/asdc-... #VolunteersWeek#NationalVolunteersWeek (2/2)
sciencecentres.org.uk
ASDC June Members' Forum: Launching the Volunteer Awards 2026
ASDC June Members' Forum: Launching the Volunteer Awards 2026
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Association for Science and Discovery Centres (ASDC) @sciencecentres.bsky.social · 01/06/2026
It's Volunteers' Week, and we want to shout out our ASDC Trustees. We massively appreciate the ways they guide and challenge our strategic direction, continually supporting us to grow and thrive. ❤️ Want to celebrate your volunteers? Nominate them for our Volunteer Awards! (1/2)
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Association for Science and Discovery Centres (ASDC) @sciencecentres.bsky.social · 19/05/2026
‘The diverse landscape of engagement activities is something the UK can be proud of and should seek to protect.’ ASDC strongly welcomes the clear call for central government to improve funding opportunities for informal engagement with science.
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Association for Science and Discovery Centres (ASDC) @sciencecentres.bsky.social · 19/05/2026
The @royalsociety.org launched their new #ScienceForSociety report exploring the multiple interconnections between science and the public, proposing recommendations for how these connections might be strengthened. royalsociety.org/news-resourc...
royalsociety.org
Science for society | Royal Society
The Royal Society has published the Science for society report exploring the multiple connections between science and the public, and proposes recommendations for how these connections might be streng...
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Association for Science and Discovery Centres (ASDC) @sciencecentres.bsky.social · 06/05/2026
Upcoming ASDC events! May Members' Forum: Sector data trends and insights (13th May, 2-3pm) June Members' Forum: Launching the Volunteer Awards (3rd June, 2-3pm) Conference 2026: Who cares about science? Early bird tickets + group offers + call for submissions #ASDC26 sciencecentres.org.uk/events
sciencecentres.org.uk
Events and training
Events and training
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Association for Science and Discovery Centres (ASDC) @sciencecentres.bsky.social · 23/04/2026
Who cares about science? This is the question we'll be discussing at the ASDC Conference 2026, 14th-15th October @techniquest.org, Wales. Join STEM education specialists, public engagement professionals, sci-comms, researchers, industry leaders & funders #ASDC26 sciencecentres.org.uk/asdc-nationa...
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Association for Science and Discovery Centres (ASDC) @sciencecentres.bsky.social · 20/04/2026
The call for submissions is now open. We're seeking proposals for interactive sessions, hands-on workshops, live labs or pop-up provocations to be part of the event programme. If you have an idea we want to hear from you: www.sciencecentres.org.uk/asdc-nationa...
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Reposted by Association for Science and Discovery Centres (ASDC)
Institute of Physics @iop.org · 03/03/2026
The Science Teaching Survey 2026 is open! If you work in education, you know the challenges better than anyone so we want to hear from you. Take 15 mins to complete the survey. Your answers will tell us what to focus on and shape our support. 📆 Survey closes 27 March 🔗 bit.ly/4aZ5OU6
Promotional image for "The Science Teaching Survey 2026" by the Royal Society of Chemistry, featuring logos of The Royal Society, Royal Society of Biology, IOP Institute of Physics, and ASE. Includes colorful abstract shapes. Text reads: "What's missing in science education? Tell us what you need."
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Association for Science and Discovery Centres (ASDC) @sciencecentres.bsky.social · 02/03/2026
In this free online event, we'll hear how other organisations have already benefitted from visiting colleagues, and how you can organise a visit of your own. Please note: this event is open to ASDC members only. www.sciencecentres.org.uk/events/asdc-...
sciencecentres.org.uk
ASDC March Members' Forum: Member tours and staff swaps
ASDC March Members' Forum: Member tours and staff swaps
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Association for Science and Discovery Centres (ASDC) @sciencecentres.bsky.social · 02/03/2026
Each ASDC member provides their own unique flavour of public engagement. Our network is full of knowledge, inspirational ideas and fresh perspectives on science communication, making it a powerful tool for professional development.
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Association for Science and Discovery Centres (ASDC) @sciencecentres.bsky.social · 02/03/2026
Calling all ASDC members! 🔁 Ever thought about doing a science centre staff swap? 🔁 In March's forum we'll be discussing how to harness our network through project-linked staff swaps and self-directed member tours. Wednesday 4th March, 2-3pm Register ⬇️ www.sciencecentres.org.uk/events/asdc-...
sciencecentres.org.uk
ASDC March Members' Forum: Member tours and staff swaps
ASDC March Members' Forum: Member tours and staff swaps
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Reposted by Association for Science and Discovery Centres (ASDC)
BIG - STEM Communicators Network, UK @big-stem-network.bsky.social · 23/02/2026
JOSH AWARD 2026 APPLICATIONS NOW OPEN! The winner of this national award in science communication and engagement will develop and deliver a new project to run at Science Festivals, Science Discovery Centres, or other outreach events. Full details at big.uk.com/josh/ Deadline 10 April 2026.
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Reposted by Association for Science and Discovery Centres (ASDC)
BIG - STEM Communicators Network, UK @big-stem-network.bsky.social · 10/02/2026
BIG Event 2026 Registration is Open Now! Join us at the National STEM Learning Centre 15-17 July for top quality skills sharing, networking and our famous Best Demo competition! Early bird tickets and our bursary scheme are now open, with early bird closing 31 March! www.big.uk.com/BIGEvent2026
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Association for Science and Discovery Centres (ASDC) @sciencecentres.bsky.social · 11/02/2026
Find out more about the events happening at @mathsworld.com, @orielscience.bsky.social, @centreofthecell.bsky.social, Kirkcudbright Dark Space Planetarium and Armagh Observatory & Planetarium www.sciencecentres.org.uk/projects/our...
sciencecentres.org.uk
Space Community of Practice: Mini space grants
Space Community of Practice: Mini space grants
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Association for Science and Discovery Centres (ASDC) @sciencecentres.bsky.social · 11/02/2026
Shout out to Xplore! Science Discovery Centre and the upcoming 'Her place is space' event - a special Astronomy evening celebrating women in space and inspiring girls to be part of what comes next... 👩🏾‍🚀 🚀 www.xplorescience.co.uk/event/her-pl...
xplorescience.co.uk
Her Place in Space: Astronomy Evening - Xplore
Welcome to Xplore! Science Discovery Centre. We are the home of science in North Wales. You'll find us full to the brim with science, exploration, and fun.
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Association for Science and Discovery Centres (ASDC) @sciencecentres.bsky.social · 11/02/2026
Today is UNESCO's International Day of Women and Girls in Science! This year, with funding from UK Space Agency, science and discovery centres around the UK are running events to spotlight women in science and encourage girls to see themselves as scientists.
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Association for Science and Discovery Centres (ASDC) @sciencecentres.bsky.social · 03/02/2026
A quick reminder of the upcoming ASDC events for project partners, members and the wider public engagement community. For timings, further details and to register please visit the events and training page on our website - www.sciencecentres.org.uk/events/
screenshot from the ASDC website showing the upcoming AI update eventscreenshot from the ASDC website showing the upcoming Feb members' forum on LGBTQ+ and inclusivityscreenshot from the ASDC website showing the upcoming Space Community Callscreenshot from the ASDC website showing the upcoming Next Gen Earth event
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Association for Science and Discovery Centres (ASDC) @sciencecentres.bsky.social · 15/01/2026
"SDCs are not optional extras, but vital national assets" An incredible speech delivered by @stevewitherdenmp.bsky.social at the Westminster Hall debate yesterday. We were glued to Parliament TV 👀 Watch again here: parliamentlive.tv/event/index/...
parliamentlive.tv
Parliamentlive.tv
Westminster Hall
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Association for Science and Discovery Centres (ASDC) @sciencecentres.bsky.social · 13/01/2026
So, put the time in your calendar - 📆 14th January, 2.30pm-4pm, and don't forget to tune in here: www.parliamentlive.tv/Commons
parliamentlive.tv
Parliamentlive.tv - Commons
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Association for Science and Discovery Centres (ASDC) @sciencecentres.bsky.social · 13/01/2026
During the debate, we eagerly anticipate hearing from MPs from across the political spectrum and all four corners of the UK, strongly expressing their support for their local science and discovery centres and the contribution our sector makes to national science and STEM engagement and skills.
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