Science in Schools

Ada Lovelace was a visionary scientist who foresaw not just the future dominance of the programmable computer, she predicted that the computer would be used far beyond its computational or even scientific purpose,

“…the engine might compose elaborate and scientific pieces of music of any degree of complexity or extent”

Ada also proposed new scientific approaches, which are recognised now as “Remote Sensing” and “Citizen Science”.  

“If amateurs of either sex would amuse their idle hours with experiments and would keep an accurate journal of their daily observations, we should have in a few years a mass of registered facts to compare with the observation of the scientific”

Ada in Porlock aims to build on her legacy, inspiring and encouraging interest and involvement with science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) subjects in partnership with our local schools.

Our current projects include funding science competitions and out of school hours science clubs whilst also bringing in people with successful careers in science and engineering to work with the children and provide a broader view of the opportunities available locally and beyond West Somerset.

We are aiming to bring a consistent set of extra-curricula opportunities to all children in the area from the Moorland Federation and Beacon Education First schools, through to Minehead and Daneshill Middle schools and West Somerset College, finally linking up with Bridgwater and Taunton College to ensure that the natural interest these subjects engender can be nurtured and enabled throughout the complete education lifecycle.

This rewarding work is always looking for volunteers with an interest or experience in science and engineering industry or academia who can support our work in schools in Minehead, Williton, Porlock and across the Exmoor region.