National Science and Engineering Week has been coordinated by the British Science Association since it began in 1994. It is endorsed and supported by the Government through the Department of Innovation, Universities and Skills.
The addition of "Engineering" to the name of "National Science and Engineering Week" took place in 2006 with the formation of a partnership between the British Science Association and the ETB (The Engineering and Technology Board) in order to highlight more engineering events as part of the week.
During the week, events are organised throughout the UK by a large and varied range of organisations and individuals including hospitals, schools, industry and museums. Venues range from shopping centres to science centres.
National Science and Engineering Week is aimed at everyone from children and adults to decision makers and investors and aims to:
* engage and inspire people of all ages with science and technology and their implications
* promote discussion and understanding of what science, engineering and technology can and cannot achieve
* promote knowledge of the scientific method, i.e. how scientists go about their work and reach their conclusions
* promote science, engineering and technology studies beyond the age of 16 and science, engineering and technology as career options.