A NEW science centre has opened at a Basingstoke college.

The revamped primary science centre was opened on Wednesday, September 25 at Queen Mary’s College, as part of a collaboration with the Atomic Weapons Establishment (AWE).

TV personality and maths whiz, Johnny Ball officially opened the new look facility.

Johnny opened the original facility 20 years ago and wanted to return to open the refurbished facility and act as an advocate of STEM education for young people and gave a lively speech to mark the occasion.

He joined teachers and QMC science staff as they enjoyed a lively science session with groups of Year Five pupils from local primary schools – including a demo by the ‘Super Slime’ team of science graduates from AWE.

Principal at QMC, Ali Foss, welcomed the initiative.

She said: “The QMC Science Centre has been recognised by Ofsted as an outstanding example of how to introduce primary age pupils to STEM education.

"We believe that by engaging their interest at a young age, it not only gives them a firm basis for future study but also introduces key ideas and concepts which will benefit them across the curriculum.”

Scientist Chris Mallinson also returned to mark the occasion. The former Rucstall Primary School pupil was present at the original opening twenty years ago and recalled taking part in activities there as a child.

Chris, who went on to study maths, chemistry and physics at QMC, a masters in chemistry at the University of Southampton and a PhD at Surrey University, added: “It’s been great to see the children being inspired here today.

"I hope they will get the same out of the science centre as I did as a child, and go on to solve the problems of the future.”

The AWE’s sponsorship means that sessions at the science centre are now free for pupils.