Delivery of Castle Science Learning Outreach Programme
Historic Environment ScotlandEstimated Value
Not specified
Deadline
Not specified
Published
7 May 2026
Type
services
Overview
HES is seeking to commission a Scottish Science Centre Contractor to deliver, and contribute to further development, of a heritage focused science offer for schools and other audiences. During the contractual period we expect the successful tenderers to manage and facilitate an HES science show programme within their own Science Centre venue and to work with HES to deliver outreach programmes to reach schools and informal learners in targeted locations across the whole of Scotland. Please see Document 2 Specification for full details.
AI Analysis
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Historic Environment Scotland (HES) wants to hire a Scottish Science Centre to run science shows at their venue and deliver educational science programmes to schools across Scotland. The contractor will manage shows in-house and travel to deliver outreach to students and public audiences in underserved areas.
Requirements
- Must operate a Scottish Science Centre venue
- Must be able to deliver science shows and educational programmes
- Must have capacity to manage an in-house science show programme
- Must be able to deliver outreach programmes across Scotland
- Must work collaboratively with HES on programme development
- Must reach schools and informal learners in targeted locations
- Check Document 2 Specification for additional requirements around staffing, insurance, safeguarding, and quality standards
Key Tasks & Deliverables
- Manage and run regular science show programmes at your own Science Centre venue
- Develop and refine science content with a heritage focus (linked to Scottish history and culture)
- Deliver outreach science programmes to schools in target areas across Scotland
- Engage informal learners (families, community groups) through travelling programmes
- Contribute to developing the science offer further during the contract period
- Report on audience reach, attendance, and educational impact
How to Read This Tender
- 1This is a service delivery contract, not a one-off project — you're committing to run ongoing programmes during the contract period. Check the contract term carefully (usually 1-3 years).
- 2The phrase 'targeted locations across the whole of Scotland' is key — you'll need to plan travel and logistics to reach schools in rural and remote areas, not just cities. Ask HES which regions they prioritize.
- 3Document 2 Specification is essential and likely contains the detailed requirements, audience numbers, frequency of shows, and quality standards. Don't bid without reading it fully.
- 4Watch for 'contribution to further development' — this suggests HES wants you to help design new content, not just deliver existing programmes. Budget time for collaboration and creative input.
- 5Look for information on funding, performance targets (how many schools/students to reach), and evaluation methods — these will determine your resource needs.
Tips for Small Businesses
- If you're a smaller Science Centre, consider partnering with another venue or educational organization through a consortium bid — HES may welcome shared expertise and wider geographic reach.
- Outreach delivery is labour-intensive; build in realistic costs for staff travel, accommodation, equipment transport, and contingency. Many small centres underestimate logistics for Scotland-wide delivery.
- Highlight any existing school partnerships, volunteer networks, or community links in your area — this demonstrates you can sustainably reach audiences and adds credibility. Include letters of support from schools if possible.
Award Details
Glasgow Science Centre
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Buyer Profile
Historic Environment ScotlandKey Dates
Published
7 May 2026
Submission deadline
Not specified
Notice type
award
Source
find a tender
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