miniBrum Project

miniBrum will create a new £2.2m interactive permanent gallery and education programme delivering STEM learning for under 8s and their families at Thinktank, Birmingham Science Museum. Our ethos: created by children, for children, about children. Based on scientific research the project will create a dynamic learning platform that meets specific developmental needs of younger children through integrated learning experiences promoting emotional, intellectual and physical wellbeing. The fundamental processes of scientific inquiry and innovation, with an emphasis on creative approaches to play, will form the foundation for learning experiences. miniBrum will increase Thinktank’s permanent displays by 1000m2 and will form the vital link between children’s services and organisations, academic research, and public engagement further extending the museum’s learning activities into the community. The project will increase Thinktank’s visitor numbers and grow income through increased capacity. We will work closely with children, families and teachers on an audience-driven co-production approach to define the content of miniBrum with a joint emphasis on STEM and wellbeing. This will grow science capital in local communities from an early age, engaging present and future visitors. We will deliver an exciting new early-years on-site learning and outreach programme, for schools and informal learners, based on physical challenges and dynamic learning techniques. We aim to engage underserved local audiences including vulnerable children and their carers. The co-production model will become a key driver to engaging with Birmingham’s super-diverse audiences and provide deeper insights in how we create meaningful engagement contributing to both Thinktank’s masterplan and STEM sector learning.