Centre of the Cell is the first science education centre in the world to be located within working biomedical research laboratories, part of Queen Mary University of London. Based in Whitechapel, East London, the Centre aims to inspire the next generation of scientists and healthcare professionals, opening their eyes to science, medical research, ethics, careers and important health issues. An educational charity, admission to the Centre is free, and is very well connected to public transport.

Centre of the Cell is suitable for primary and secondary school students. Content linked to Key Stages 2, 3 & 4 of the National Science Curriculum and cross-linked to Maths & Citizenship curricula. Cells are the building blocks of life. They are so tiny you can’t see them with your eyes and there are so many in your body you can’t count them. Cells work together to make you think, move, talk, laugh and be you. A single cell made you...

The make-up of our bodies, the processes that make us grow and stay alive and healthy, are all explored by Centre of the Cell through ground breaking digital interactive games, films, microscopes & body parts. The Centre of the Cell ‘Pod’ is dramatically suspended above the futuristic laboratories. Centre of the Cell allows students to access Curriculum specific information in a truly informative and engaging way.

Beyond the biology books – Through the Centre’s Learning Facilitators, interactive microscopes, real-life case studies and interactive games – all set within a ‘live’ biomedical research laboratory – you can be sure that your students will be stimulated by both the content and surroundings. Working scientists also take part in school sessions at the Centre.

The ‘Pod’ at the Centre takes up to 40 people at a time. Your pupils will have the chance to explore, question and learn the basics, and beyond, about fertility, cell reproduction, birth, disease, medical research and healthcare.

Follow the story of a couple receiving IVF treatment, with a Patient’s Journey, and discover amazing facts, such as how many cells we all make in a minute, how does mitosis happen, how genes shape your personality, and the difference between identical and non-identical twins, through the thoughtprovoking interactive sessions.

Centre of the Cell’s website  ww.centreofthecell.org is a free stand-alone resource containing 150 pages of learning resources, including interactive games and ‘Cellpedia’ - a useful introduction to the words and terms relating to cell biology and biomedical research. Teachers and students can access specific Key Stage resources, fun quizzes and other educational materials on the Centre of the Cell’s website.

Centre of the Cell also runs exciting and interactive biology themed workshops in schools. They are designed to inspire and stimulate pupils and encourage them to interact and investigate. Please contact Centre of the Cell for prices and further details.

Key information

• Inspiring, Interactive Science
• FREE admission to the Centre
• Located in working research labs.
• Key Stages 2, 3 & 4
• Sessions led by Learning Facilitators
• Science Ambassadors take part in sessions