Inspiring the Next Generation: Dame Dr Maggie Aderin Joins Hyundai’s Mission to Bring Science to Life
By Science Correspondent
Dame Dr Maggie Aderin called school trips ‘critical for kids’ development’ as she attended the National Space Centre with pupils from Thornhill Community Academy as part of The Hyundai Great British School Trip.
The British space scientist and educator interacted with the exhibits alongside the pupils and spoke to them about future careers in the UK space industry, crediting visits to The Science Museum during her own schooling for inspiring her to become a space scientist.
Dame Dr Maggie Aderin said: "It’s great to see young people already thinking about future careers in science, tech, and digital media. The challenge is helping them explore these fast-moving fields in meaningful, hands-on ways. That’s why initiatives like The Hyundai Great British School Trip matter. They spark curiosity and open possibilities. I’m thrilled we are also bringing this experience to classrooms nationwide, fuelling passions that will shape their futures."
WATCH VIDEO:
Set on Mars, the unique immersive lesson available to Years 8&9 classes nationwide is an interactive, escape-room-style activity, with pupils guided through their mission by Dame Dr Maggie.
Through a series of puzzles and activities the students use a variety of skills to unlock the escape capsule and bring everyone back to earth safely.
Working together and trialling five different space careers, the pupils practice the different skills required to be successful on their mission.
Since launching, The Hyundai Great British School Trip has enabled nearly 150,000 children to experience school trips and aims for this figure to reach 160,000 by summer 2025.
Backed by over £3 million in funding, the programme reflects Hyundai’s continuing commitment to supporting educators and families with meaningful opportunities.
Ashley Andrew, President of Hyundai Motor & Genesis UK, commented: “Now in our third year of The Hyundai Great British School Trip, we’ve seen how powerful real-world experiences can be in preparing young people for the future of work. Knowing over a quarter of parents would like more guidance on future career paths, and with everything else teachers juggle, it’s more important than ever to give students early exposure to the careers of tomorrow. And who better to inspire them than Dame Dr Maggie Aderin.”
The virtual ‘space lesson’ is available to schools across the country during National School Trips Week (28th April – 4th May).
Schools that take part will also be in with a chance to win an all-expenses paid trip to the National Space Centre, this academic year, focusing on the future of space technology. Visit here to find out more.
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