Frequently asked questions
Below are some of the more frequently asked questions we receive about the Festival. If there are any other queries than we can help with, please don't hesitate to ask.
What is the British Science Festival?
The British Science Festival (formerly the BA Festival of Science) is one of the UK's biggest science festivals, encompassing over 250 events over the course of a week, held at a different location each September. Annually it attracts around 400 of the best scientists and science communicators from home and abroad who reveal the latest developments in research to a general audience.
Where is Festival held?
The Festival is hosted by a different university venue each year, with events also taking place in the city and surrounding area. In 2008, the Festival was in Liverpool, hosted by the University of Liverpool. the 2009 Festival was hosted by the University of Surrey. In 2010, the Festival was held in the city of Birmingham. 2011 will see the Festival returnung the city of Bradford in nerly 100 years.
When does the Festival take place?
The Festival takes place in September each year. The 2011 Festival will take place from Saturday 10 - Thursday 15 September in Bradford. Additional dates are yet to be announced.
What goes on during the week?
The Festival hosts debates, talks, workshops, exhibitions, fieldtrips and more. The programme should be available to search online from mid spring, with the printed version of the programme available from the summer.
How is the British Science Association organised?
The British Science Association (formerly the British Association for the Advancement of Science (the BA)) coordinates the Festival as a whole, with valuable assistance from key partners. The Festival is split into four programmes: main programme, Science in the City programme, Schools Key Stage (KS) 2-3 programme and Schools KS 4-5 programme. Within these programmes, events are arranged by individual organisers.
Who can hold an event at the Festival?
The British Science Association is not prescriptive over who may hold an event within the Festival, but we do follow a strict proposal process to ensure a varied programme is produced and all events are of scientific integrity and appeal to our varied audiences. The proposal process is opened in the spring, 18 months before the Festival, with a closing date in October. Details are posted online.
Who are the events targeted at?
The Festival attracts academics, general public, school groups and families, of all interests and backgrounds. We believe we offer a unique opportunity to interact with an eclectic mix of people engaging in science.
What is the Festival theme?
Each year the President of the British Science Association sets a theme for the Festival, which is the premise of their Presidential Address at the Festival. The President for 2011is Dame Jocelyn Bell-Burnell she set the theme as ' Exploring new Worlds'. The 2010 President, Lord Sainsbury of Turville set the Presidential theme as 'Better lives through Science'. Some events during the Festival will follow the theme but the British Science Association is not restrictive in its usage by event organisers.
How can I attend events at the Festival?
Each event is listed on our website and in the Festival programme. In the programme, the appropriate audience for each event is listed. Visitors to the Festival are able to purchase individual tickets or book for most events in the Festival programme. Some events are drop-in events. Bookings normally open in June.
How much does it cost?
Ticket prices for individual events vary. Some are free, some cost maybe £3, some are more.
Staff and students of the host university are entitled to free weekly passes.