Families in Swindon are being invited to get curious about the world around them – and beyond it – at a free science day taking place in Old Town later this month.
Bath Road Methodist Church will host a Believing Science Wonder Day on Saturday, 22 August, bringing a mixture of hands-on experiments, crafts, activities and astronomy to the church between 10am and 4pm.
The free event is aimed particularly at primary school-aged children and their families, with visitors able to drop in throughout the day and explore a series of different science-themed zones.
There will be opportunities to discover more about the environment, light and colour, astronomy and life, with activities designed to encourage children to ask questions, experiment and explore.
One of the highlights is likely to be the planetarium, which will run several shows throughout the day and offer families the chance to take a closer look at the universe.
While all of the activities are free, places at the planetarium shows are limited, so families are advised to book in advance if they want to make sure of a place.
The event is a collaboration between the Old Town Partnership of Churches and Believing Science, an organisation which aims to encourage greater interest and enthusiasm for science and technology within both the Church and the wider community.
Rather than presenting science and faith as subjects that have to remain in separate corners, the event aims to provide a space where questions can be explored openly, with curiosity and a sense of wonder at the heart of the day.
Rev’d Rach Collins, minister at Bath Road Methodist Church, said: “We are really looking forward to exploring the wonder of science and creation as we invite families into the Church.
“This is a day where science and religion really can mix. We’re not there to give answers but explore questions of the universe together.”
The event comes at a useful time for families looking for something different to do during the school summer holidays, offering a chance to combine entertainment with a little learning without the usual admission fee.
Families can drop into Bath Road Methodist Church on Bath Road in Old Town at any point between 10am and 4pm on Saturday, 22 August.
All activities are free, while advance booking is recommended for the planetarium sessions.
More information and the planetarium booking details can be found online.
