Become a Chelmsford Science Festival partner

The annual Chelmsford Science Festival is full of exciting interactive activities, showcasing science and discussing topical issues – and we'd like you to get involved.

Two children holding colouring/information sheets at a Chelmsford Science Festival event

Callout for scientists, academics, and external partners

The theme for this year’s festival is Our AI World – Power and Perils, highlighting the opportunities and challenges of artificial intelligence. However, the festival will not solely focus on this theme, and we are looking for content around science in its broadest sense – working across multiple disciplines including STEM, the arts, humanities and social sciences.

We welcome proposals from scientists, industry partners, local businesses and community organisations as well as ARU academics, researchers and PhD students. The festival programme will include interactive exhibits, workshops, talks, demonstrations, performances and installations. Creativity and innovation are highly encouraged! There’s a format to suit everyone.

For example, can you create and host: 

  • a talk showcasing ground-breaking research and/or technology
  • a mind-boggling quiz/puzzle/coding/gaming night that will entertain, inform and inspire
  • a stand at the festival fair or workshop session showcasing career paths during one of the Schools and Colleges days
  • an escape room theme with a twist
  • an inspiring podcast
  • a film event at one of the city’s many venues
  • a unique and impactful learning activity for children they’ll remember for years to come
  • inclusive, interdisciplinary activities to bring science to all.

The activities can be standalone events, or form part of the weekend family days at ARU in Chelmsford, city activations in the centre of Chelmsford, or campus days during half-term at ARU in Writtle. There is scope to partner with other Chelmsford venues to host Chelmsford Science festival events.

We are also looking for content for our Schools and Colleges days which will be held on:

  • Wednesday 22 October at ARU in Writtle for Year 9 students
  • Thursday 23 October at ARU in Chelmsford for Year 12 students
  • Friday 24 October at ARU in Chelmsford for Year 10 students.

Submit a proposal

To submit a proposal, please contact the Festival Manager on [email protected].

Please also take a look at our FAQs.

Join us in making the Chelmsford Science Festival an unforgettable experience!
#ChelmSciFest