Creative Space

In March 2003 teachers from ten schools in Manchester and Leeds, together with artists, curators, scientists and research students, formed "creative space teams" in order to investigate scientific concepts through the exploration of space. 

This could mean:

• Mental space for exploration
• Time within a crowded curriculum
• The creation of stimulating installations and environments

The challenge for schools - especially for teachers of science - was to enter into a collaboration with no known outcome. The project raised many questions about the teaching of science, including:

• Can the current system provide the time to support genuine experimentation?
• How can we ensure a continuity of positive scientific experience between Key Stages 2 and 3?
• Can creative science teaching flourish without a whole-school commitment to creativity?

CapeUK worked closely with The Centre for Science Education at Sheffield Hallam University on this project. Other partners included the Centre for Understanding the Built Environment (CUBE) in Manchester; the Museum of Science and Industry in Manchester; and Leeds Museums and Galleries.

The project was funded by the National Endowment for Science, Technology and the Arts (NESTA).

Copyright © 2006 CapeUK website by Rachael Black