Robots, rockets, and revelry: Nottinghamshire Festival of Science and Curiosity marks a decade of discovery

Nottinghamshire Festival of Science and Curiosity (FOSAC) is back, bringing a week of free, hands-on science activities for young people and families this February half-term.

 

Showcasing science in all its forms, the Festival aims to provide families with a unique opportunity to explore the wonders of science in a fun, engaging, and accessible way. 

 

This year marks a significant milestone for the Festival, as it celebrates 10 incredible years of sparking curiosity, and inspiring young minds across Nottingham and Nottinghamshire.

 

Since its launch in 2015, FOSAC has inspired over 55,500 guests, collaborated with more than 200 schools, and delivered nearly 450 awe-inspiring events. This enduring success reflects its vital role in making science exciting and inclusive for young people.

 

FOSAC is produced by Nottingham-based education charity Ignite!, with support from a wide range of festival network organisations.

 

Megan Shore, Programme Manager at Ignite! commented:

“Our mission is to spark curiosity and give families — especially those with limited access to STEM activities — a chance to enjoy hands-on experiences that make science fun and engaging.

 

We’re thrilled to celebrate 10 wonderful years of inspiring children and young people across our region and can’t wait to bring joy and inspiration to budding young scientists and their families once again.” 

 

This year’s festival spans across 45 venues, with over 50 free events all brought to life by a passionate community of experts from local universities, and STEM-based industries.

 

Visitors can explore a wide range of engaging activities, from robot building and slime making to captivating planetarium sessions, immersive Virtual Reality (VR) demonstrations, and much more.

 

The popular drop-in Science Fun Days will be back, now available at more venues than ever to meet growing demand. Nottingham Cathedral will also host SEND Science Fun Days and immersive planetarium sessions, thoughtfully designed to provide a fun and accessible experience for families with children with special educational needs and disabilities.

 

The Festival culminates on Friday 21 February with a celebratory Stargazing party at Green’s Windmill, Sneinton.

 

Nottinghamshire County Councillor Keith Girling, Cabinet Member for Economic Development and Strategic Asset Management, said:

“Our county is becoming a hub for innovation, and we are at the forefront of science and technology, with lots of exciting development.
 
“Our mobile connectivity maps have helped residents to check their area’s mobile signal strength for the four major UK providers. We’re also leading on a £1.2 million Gigahub project to provide faster and more reliable gigabit internet to public service buildings in rural areas across Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire.
 
“A world-class STEP fusion site near Retford aims to revolutionise the way we generate energy thanks to cutting-edge technology. We are a key partner and proud that it is happening right here in Notts, boosting skills and job opportunities for our county’s future generations.
 
“Festival goers will have the chance to learn about the benefits of fusion energy and take part in the other exciting events and workshops happening across the county, including at our fantastic libraries.
 
“This festival continues to inspire the scientists of the future, and is a wonderful celebration of creativity, curiosity and innovation.”

This year’s Festival is delivered in partnership with Bassetlaw District Council, Broxtowe Borough Council, Catalent, Explore Manufacturing, Gedling Borough Council, Mansfield District Council, Neos Networks, Nottingham Trent University, Nottinghamshire County Council, Quotient Sciences, Rolls Royce, Royal Society of Chemistry, Sygnature Discovery, UKAEA, University of Nottingham, University of Nottingham Institute of Policy & Engagement, and Upperton Pharma Solutions.  

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