Europe’s longest standing science event is getting ready to visit Chelmsford later this year and it needs your help. The British Science Festival is coming to the city in September and it’s offering grants to local community groups.

£500 grants on offer

The festival wants to inspire as many people as possible about all things STEM, so it’s looking for organisations in Chelmsford to run their own events alongside the main festival programme.

To help with this, the British Science Association is offering grants of £500 to groups working directly with audiences traditionally underrepresented in science activities.

Chelmsford City Council’s Deputy Leader Cllr Marie Goldman says it’s a great opportunity to be part of an amazing experience.

“This is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to participate in a cutting-edge international event right here on our doorstep. If you love science and you have an idea for a community event, you could help to inspire a whole new generation of scientists in our city.”

Chelmsford City Council Deputy Leader, Cllr Marie Goldman

There’s help if you need it

If your group would like to apply, take a look at the BSA website. If you need any further help, grant writing support is available directly from the British Science Association. You have until 5pm on Monday 14 June to submit your application.

Festival hosted by Anglia Ruskin University

The festival had been planned to arrive in 2020 but it was postponed until 2021 because of the pandemic. It’s being hosted by Anglia Ruskin University and there’ll be talks, drop-in events and installations throughout the city centre and the ARU campus.

Ambitious live events being planned

The programme for the main festival is due to be launched later in the year and it’s hoping to be one of the most ambitious live events since the start of the pandemic. The festival team has been following all the latest Government guidance for large events. They’re confident the programme will be both ambitious and Covid-compliant.

The BSA and ARU are fully committed to delivering a safe and exciting British Science Festival programme this September.  Our priorities are the health and safety of all attendees, speakers and staff, and to ensure we are providing the most engaging, enjoyable and high-quality Festival experience”

BSA Head of Festivals, Antonio Benitez

More announcements soon

We’ll have more on the plans here on City Life in the coming weeks. Don’t forget to check the British Science Festival website for the very latest on events and how to book.

By Julie Weight

Julie writes stories and creates videos for Chelmsford City Council. Contact her at julie.weight@chelmsford.gov.uk or on 01245 606984.

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