Community News Archive

Mobile science labs hit the road

Institute of Physics

17 May 2005

Lab in a Lorry, a fleet of three mobile science labs for young people, launched its UK and Ireland tour today (Wednesday 18th May) at the Institute of Physics in London.

Designed to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers, Lab in a Lorry will offer 11-14 year olds the opportunity to explore science through specially created interactive experiments.

The Lab in a Lorry programme consists of three 44ft lorries that will visit schools, youth organisations, major events, and communities free of charge across the UK and Ireland from 2005 onwards.

Each lorry is fitted with three distinct lab areas where groups of up to six young people can take part in each of the fun and informative experiments. The programme is delivered by volunteers – all practicing scientists and engineers – and with at least one volunteer mentor to every six students, everyone gets to try their hand at experimental science and think about the surprises and questions that arise.

A partnership between the Institute of Physics and the Schlumberger Foundation, Lab in a Lorry aims to encourage positive attitudes towards science, and make science and engineering more attractive to 11-14 year olds.

Institute of Physics spokesperson John Brindley said:

“Lab in a Lorry is a fantastic experience for young people. It generates excitement and curiosity in science by letting them explore experimental science for themselves with the help of expert mentors.”

Schlumberger Foundation spokesperson Johana Dunlop said:

“Lab in a Lorry offers young people a captivating experience. It brings science to life through experiments that demonstrate the rules governing everyday events. We hope Lab in a Lorry will help to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers.”

Schools, youth organisations and communities can invite Lab in a Lorry to visit them through the website www.labinalorry.org.uk which also contains information on how to become a volunteer.

Lab in a Lorry is actively recruiting additional partners to ensure the programme expands and continues to be a free experience for all. For more information on partnerships, please visit the Lab in a Lorry website.

Find out more at: http://www.labinalorry.org.uk

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