Bringing families together through the wonder of science in Shildon
Building bridges, driving robots, discovering how bees see flowers and finding out just how high you can jump. These were just some of the experiences families enjoyed at Celebrate Science 2026 at Locomotion in Shildon.
Held throughout the October school holidays, we were proud to support the free Celebrate Science 2026 event alongside the Reece Foundation, the William and Frances Dobie Charitable Foundation and UKRI. Our £500 contribution helped give local families opportunities to learn, explore and enjoy new experiences together.
There was plenty to spark curiosity. Children explored the human senses, atoms, light and stars, got up close to animal skulls and snakes, experimented with windmills, stepped inside a planetarium and even discovered what it was like to go invisible.
Visitor feedback shared with us by Dr Paula Street, Senior Science Engagement Specialist, Durham University Science Faculty Office, showed how much families enjoyed the event:
“My favourite was the robot driving and the planetarium.”
“My favourite was painting a meadow picture.”
“I learned about all the senses.”
“I am 8 and I can jump as high as a 14 year old!”
“The experiments and tasks were fantastic! I really enjoyed it and I met a lot of new people. Great experience!”
Lisa Newham, Community Regeneration Advisor, said: “It was a pleasure to attend Celebrate Science and see people of all ages enjoying and benefiting from the activities. We want to support local activities for local people that make a positive contribution to our communities. Events like this provide opportunities to learn, have fun and bring people together, helping to create thriving communities where people enjoy living.”
Pictured: Left to right, Pam Porter (Head of Events, Locomotion), Paula Street (Durham University Science Engagement Team), Charlotte Thompson (Teacher and Volunteer), Archie Thompson (Volunteer), Elizabeth Thompson (Volunteer) and Lisa Newham (Community Regeneration Advisor)