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Primary school sessions

Although the museum is currently limiting opening times to the public, we are still keen to engage with schools and groups. We have developed a range of specialised online sessions and can also offer digital, outreach or on-site learning sessions from early years to KS2 on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. Sessions typically last up to an hour and a half and include practical activities, information about objects and a chance to ask questions. Contact Alison Giles, our learning coordinator, on are26@cam.ac.uk to discuss how we can help you.

Inventions and Discoveries

Key themes: Maths, Science, Geography and Art

Age range: KS1 and KS2

Explore how technology has changed through time and learn more about key inventions such as microscopes, telescopes, globes and calculators. The Museum has many other intriguing inventions such as pre-film animation devices, papier-mâché human anatomical models and glass fungi. What will your students discover?

Duration: 90 minutes

Format: 30 minute taught session + 30 minute worksheet+ 30 minute handling and/or craft activity.

Light

Key themes: Science

Age range: KS2

During this session students will look at telescopes, microscopes and sundials to explore light sources, reflection and shadows. Students will have the opportunity to handle scientific instruments and make their own dial.

Duration: 90 minutes

Format: 30 minute taught session + 30 minute worksheet + 30 minute handling and/or craft activity

Local History Study: Cambridge Scientists

Key themes: History, Science and English

Age range: KS2

Through the objects in the Museum, students will focus on the achievements of scientists who worked in Cambridge and how their discoveries have contributed to the development of science. As part of the session, students will pick their favourite scientist and create a poster explaining why their scientist should win the 'Nobel Prize for Cambridge Scientists'.

Duration: 90 minutes

Format: 30 minute taught session + 1 hour poster activity and presentation

close-up of orrery model

Earth and Space

Key themes: Science and History

Age range: KS1 and KS2

How did people learn about the solar system before space telescopes and spaceships were invented? By looking at telescopes, globes and mechanical models of the solar system, students will learn more about how our understanding of the universe has changed through time. Make an orrery showing the movement of the earth and moon around the sun.

Duration: 90 minutes (60 minutes for KS1)

Format: 30 minute taught session + 30 minute worksheet + 30 minute handling and/or craft activity

This session can also be run for KS1 pupils, but sessions last 60 minutes and comprise of a 20 minute taught session + 20 minute worksheet + 20 minutes object handling and role play

The Science of Musical Sound

Key themes: Science, History

Age range: KS2

From musical instruments to vibrations, and from sound waves to the inner ear, students will use objects from the collection to understand how sound is made, travels and is heard. Through hands-on and observational investigation, they will explore how humans have created musical and scientific instruments enabling us to make music and communicate through the ages.

Duration: 90 minutes

Format: 30 minute taught session + 30 minute worksheet + 30 minute handling and investigation

Opening Times

We are currently open five days a week!

Booking is essential, but tickets are free. They are available at the University of Cambridge Museums website. Tickets are available for the subsequent week.

Slots are as below:

Monday 14:00 - 15:30

Tuesday 14:00 - 15:30

Wednesday 14:00 - 15:30

Thursday 14:00 - 15:30

Friday 14:00 - 15:30

We hope to see you soon!

Please note that, in line with University of Cambridge guidance, the Whipple Museum requires visitors to continue to wear face coverings (unless exempt) and maintain social distancing.

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