- Talk
- Science & Technology
- Manchester
- 9 February 2026
Inspiring Young Minds in Manchester & Beyond
Redefining Science Learning for the Next Generation
9 February 2026
7:00pm - 8:30pm
Friends’ Meeting House
Mount Street, Manchester M2 5NS
Get directions
£10.00 General Admission / Students & Members book for FREE
Wheelchair accessible
Overview
How can we spark curiosity, creativity, and confidence in young learners through science? In this thought‑provoking lecture, Professor Lynne Bianchi will draw on her extensive research and experience to explore what makes science education truly meaningful for children aged 5 to 14.
Working in close partnership with teachers across the UK, Professor Bianchi has seen first‑hand how science and engineering can become powerful platforms for wonder, imagination, and lifelong learning. She will discuss the evolving educational landscape, highlighting both the opportunities and the challenges that shape teachers’ confidence and curriculum development. Central to this is her influential framework, the Trajectory of Professional Development, which has guided many educators in rethinking their approach to science teaching.
As the government’s curriculum review looms, Professor Bianchi will share her vision for the “next‑step” science curriculum, one that equips children not only with knowledge, but also with the confidence to ask questions, explore possibilities, and connect science to the world around them.
The lecture will spotlight the decade of impactful work she has led in the Science & Engineering Education Research and Innovation Hub, at The University of Manchester. This will include raising awareness of the Manchester-born global campaign – Great Science Share for Schools. Attendees will be invited to reflect on their own perspectives: what is science learning for, and how can we ensure it inspires every child?
Join us for an evening of insight, reflection, and inspiration as we consider how to shape the future of science education for the next generation.
Practical Information
The talk includes a Q&A session.
Booking is essential. Lit&Phil members: we recommend logging into the website to make booking your free member ticket quicker and easier.
Accessibility Information
The venue is wheelchair accessible with an accessible toilet on the ground floor. Please contact us regarding any specific accessibility requirements you may have by emailing events@manlitphil.ac.uk
Professor Lynne Bianchi
Professor Lynne Bianchi is an established specialist in curriculum and professional development, innovation and research in science and engineering education in mainstream primary-secondary phases (5-14 years). Also as the Director of the University of Manchester’s Science & Engineering Education Research and Innovation Hub, she draws on >25 years of experience to underpins sector-leading research, projects and transformative educational campaigns. Through sustained collaborations with STEM charities, learned societies and industry partners, she speaks to the importance of practical learning, real-world contexts and children’s questions as means to invigorate mainstream National Curriculum learning experiences in STEM.
Lynne is the Vice Dean for Social Responsibility & EDIA at the University of Manchester where she leads strategy for university-school engagement in outreach, public and civic engagement. She is an international speaker and holds a significant publication record, enabling her to be an expert advisor to groups including UNESCO STEM Alliance.
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