How long have you been working at Glasgow Science Centre and what made you want to work here – do you have a science background/interest in science?  

I joined Glasgow Science Centre as a Science Communicator almost ten years ago. I had studied product design and was looking for a career change from being a retail buyer. I jumped at the chance to work at the science centre as I had always loved visiting with my three children and was so impressed with the fun and interactive approach to science. I also have a background in performing so although I didn’t have a science background, I had so many other experiences that made coming here feel right.  

In your opinion, what is the best thing about working at Glasgow Science Centre?  

There are lots of reasons why I love my job and being part of the Science Centre. Not only is the building very unique and “cool” but so are the people who work here. We have colleagues from all around the world and those who grew up five minutes down the road in Govan. We have people who have science backgrounds and people like me who don’t, yet we all merge our personalities, experience, expertise and vision into a five-star experience for all our visitors. I’m really proud of the way we work in teams to put together workshops, shows and events.  

What is your favourite thing about community learning?  

I have been in the Community Learning team for four and a half years and I’ve loved every minute of it. It’s a privilege to work with amazing people from so many different communities within Glasgow and beyond. Good community development starts with knowing the needs and interests of the groups and we work with them on projects and activities that will give them a positive introduction to STEM and help build their confidence. I am deeply passionate about working with young people who have additional support needs (ASN) and those who are neurodivergent. My favourite thing is creating a safe and welcoming environment that feels informal and different from traditional school settings, especially for those who may have had negative experiences in the past. It’s important to provide engaging activities and time for lots of discussion to support the learning and empower these young individuals to participate and contribute to the conversation.  

What is your favourite sessions to teach groups in The Bothy?  

My favourite sessions are when we combine creativity to explore science and what it can teach us about the world we live in. Making art to express how we feel about climate change, for example, can be a great starting point for young people and the climate science discussions can happen around that. We also like to focus on health and wellbeing so getting groups outside for a walk gives us the opportunity to talk about the local environment whilst discussing the effects of climate change and supporting them to become “citizen scientists.”

Do you have any stand-out memories from your time in the Community Learning team – who have been your favourite group to work with?  

I love working with all the different groups we meet and it’s very rewarding to see the positive impact we are having. Although it’s hard to pick a favourite, one group does stand out. We collaborated with the Men’s Group at The Hidden Gardens in 2023 to produce a community curated exhibit, highlighting their peer support group set up to prevent isolation and improve mental health. Over an eight-month period we would visit them fortnightly and run workshops to explore their hobbies and interests, taking art materials and encouraging them to start making things they could see around them. The men, of all ages and from all walks of life, really thrived throughout the project and produced lots of handmade art and crafts that celebrated all their favourite things within the Hidden Gardens. The final exhibit was launched at a Hidden Gardens open day for the local community, and the project even got a motion passed in Scottish Parliament recognising its impact.  

Why are charities like Glasgow Science Centre so important when it comes to creating opportunities for people from all backgrounds to engage with and enjoy science?  

As an Educational Charity, Glasgow Science Centre is an important resource for the city and for Scotland. At the very heart of what we do is our mission- which is to offer accessible, inclusive science and STEM learning to everyone regardless of age, gender, abilities or cultural and social background. We have built and continue to build very strong partnerships with educational facilities local businesses and community groups as well as offering opportunities to individuals through work experience and volunteering roles.  

Having a dedicated Community Learning team allows us to connect to our communities, introducing science that will inspire the next generation and provide lifelong learning opportunities.