Cardiff’s science centre, Techniquest, is rebuilding itself from the ground up—shaped not by curators alone, but by the local communities who will use it. This matters because science centres in the UK often struggle to reach audiences beyond school groups and already-interested families. Techniquest’s current model leaves many Welsh communities—particularly those with low “science capital”—feeling that STEM has little relevance to their lives. The project directly tackles that gap by handing over design and programming decisions to local residents, community groups, and Welsh STEM innovators, working together under a new umbrella called The STEM Collective. If successful, the rebuilt centre will offer 73% more exhibition space and attract at least 40% more visitors within five years. But the real change is cultural: a co-designed space where communities pursue their own interests, not just a pre-packaged science experience. Collaborations with museums and theatres will weave STEM into a wider range of cultural experiences. The project is not fundamental research—it is a public engagement intervention. Its impact will be measured in who walks through the door, what they choose to do there, and whether they return.
View original technical description
The Science Capital will connect communities with STEM through a range of co- produced exhibitions and programmes demonstrating the relevance of science to the world around them. Exciting and innovative content will stem from collaborations with local communities, Welsh STEM innovators and academics. The Science Capital is a catalyst for a sweeping culture change and innovative approach to reaching new audiences. Shaped by the widest range of colleagues, in collaboration with many individuals and stakeholders, it places communities at the very heart of the transformation. Each part of the design and development of The Science Capital will be informed by communities in the surrounding area. They will work together under the umbrella of The STEM Collective, a vehicle for science communication which will increase science capital within Welsh communities. Collaborations with local and national organisations such as museums and theatres will promote the widest range of cultural experiences to communities and visitors. A co-designed space will enable communities to pursue their own interests and contribute to the STEM agenda. The new development will provide an additional 73% exhibition space. Visitor numbers will increase by at least 40% within 5 years because of exciting new content, designed by and for a diverse audience. This proposal reflects the Techniquest’s ability and desire to create organisational and social change. Investment from the Inspiring Science Fund will enable Techniquest to realise these ambitions and ensure Wales’ capital city retains its science and discovery centre.
Plain English summaries and category classifications on this site are generated by AI and may not perfectly reflect the original research.
Is something wrong? Let us know