Annual Science Bazaar at Oxford Brookes University is set to be the biggest yet

Hundreds of families are expected to flock to Oxford Brookes University for its annual free Science Bazaar on Saturday 3 February.

A Royal Institution Energy Live show, a simulation ambulance and Science Oxford’s Mobile Planetarium are among the activities and events planned for the Bazaar. Energy Live aims to teach children about energy through a series of experiments, explosions and hands-on audience participation. 

Dr Ellie Beaman, Public and Community Engagement Coordinator at Oxford Brookes University and Science Bazaar organiser, said: “We are excited to have 60 activities, the most we have ever had, with some fantastic new additions for 2024.”

Also new for 2024 are Crystal Maze-style challenge rooms, ‘worry worm’ crochet workshops and activities linked to keyhole surgery and DNA extraction. The simulation ambulance, or simbulance, will be available for children to explore. The simbulance arrived at Oxford Brookes University last year to give student paramedics the chance to gain experience of working in an ambulance as part of their training. 

One of the new Oxford Bus Company fully-electric BROOKESBuses will also be on display at the Bazaar. The double deckers replaced a fleet of diesel BROOKESbuses last year as part of Oxford's drive to become a net zero city.

Dr Beaman said: “We will once again be running a relaxed, autism friendly early opening which is already fully booked. Last year this session, from 9.30am, gave those who would not normally attend this event the chance to engage with fun science activities in a more relaxed environment.”

Other activities will include tai chi and a comic book workshop showcasing Oxford Brookes’ research in collaboration with the author of the popular Mega Robo series, Neill Cameron. 

Dr Beaman added: “Last year’s Bazaar was absolutely packed with children and families enjoying the array of activities while getting a taste of the science and research that takes place at Oxford Brookes University. We can’t wait to see children enjoying the activities we’ve got lined up for 2024.” 

The free event is suitable for children aged five to 16 and will take place at Oxford Brookes University’s Headington Campus from 11.30am to 4pm on Saturday 3 February. For more information and to book tickets see https://www.brookes.ac.uk/science-bazaar