The National Museum of Computing augments its existing offering of inspiring interactive physical and remote events and award-winning Education Programme
/The National Museum of Computing, Bletchley, 14 February - The National Museum of Computing (TNMOC), an independent charity, has today announced its exciting line-up of events, workshops and unique experiences set to enthral visitors throughout 2022, reconnecting with its existing community and enticing new audiences. In alignment with its ongoing mission to ‘Conserve, Educate and Engage’, the museum is building upon the successful events and experiences launched in 2021 with a range of options for various age groups and knowledge levels, to offer a great day out for families, pupils, computing enthusiasts and corporate groups.
Despite continued restrictions throughout the past two years, the museum – which reopened in May 2021 – was able to host several exciting events and launch new experiences. Notably, the museum launched its new Escape Room Packages in October last year, which continue to grow in popularity. Rooted in the Museum’s extraordinary collection, participants face a series of perplexing challenges inspired by computing technology across the decades. Participants must collaborate, gathering their wits, problem-solving, and team working skills to beat the ticking clock - and rival teams - in a thrilling race to the finish line to escape a decade. Following their popularity, these packages will continue throughout the year and can be booked here.
Looking ahead, the museum is set to soon launch its online new immersive 3D tour, enabling those from further afield who are perhaps unable to travel to the museum, an opportunity to tour the museum, hear from the experts within and get up-close and personal with key artefacts within the museum – all from the comfort of their own homes.
2022 will also see a number of significant anniversaries in the computing history calendar, which will be celebrated at the museum through a series of pop-up galleries including the 10th Anniversary of Raspberry Pi. The ICT 1301, an early business computer, celebrates its 60th anniversary since launch, the ZX Spectrum, a home computer, celebrates its 40th anniversary since launch, and Atari, a pioneer in electronic games celebrates its 50th anniversary since launch. Each of these pivotal devices, which can be found at the museum, will be celebrated during their respective anniversaries, providing visitors with an opportunity to understand more about the iconic machines, their importance in computing history, and their impact on today’s devices.
In terms of events, TNMOC continually expands its offering, to ensure it is providing visitors with insightful and educational updates on the latest hot topics in computing. This week, the museum has launched its first CyberMe two-day hack. The event is designed to develop foundational cyber security skills in Year 9-11 students. It will not only inspire students to further engage with STEM subjects and raise awareness of careers in cyber security, but will also equip students with the knowledge to participate in other Cyber challenges and competitions, and reinforce GCSE Computer Science studies.
Alongside the wide range of educational events, the museum also hosts a number of interactive workshops which also aim to inspire the next generation of computer scientists. For example, TNMOC hosts regular ‘build your own calculator’ workshops, which enable attendees to develop and practice their basic electronics skills.
Esteemed technology broadcaster, Rory Cellan-Jones is also set to provide a guest lecture to visitors following his honorary fellowship award last year from the museum in recognition of his outstanding contributions towards the history and ongoing development of computing.
Jacqui Garrad, the Museum Director comments: “We’re so proud of everything we’ve been able to achieve over the past few years, while working with rapid changes to guidelines and audience engagement. Since reopening in May ’21 we have not only kept the museum open and safe for visitors, but have also built on our fantastic team and expanded the experiences we’re able to offer visitors. With our Educational programme, specialist workshops, events, and exciting new experiences, alongside the existing expertise of our volunteers, TNMOC truly offers something for all visitors to enjoy.
“We look forward to welcoming new and returning visitors to the museum throughout 2022, and sharing our exhilarating, interactive museum experiences.”
Other upcoming events, virtual talks and lectures taking place at the museum include: Museum Events
● Build/Code a Drone Workshop (Saturday 19th February) Book now.
● Programming the Elliott 903 (Tuesday 23rd February 2022). Book now.
● Volunteer Recruitment Day (Saturday 26th February). Discover more here.
● Virtual Guided Tour (Sunday 27th February 2022). Book now.
● Pop-Up Exhibition Launch in Partnership with Raspberry Pi (Saturday 5th March 2022). Celebrating Raspberry Pi’s 10th anniversary: Explore the evolution of the Raspberry Pi, enjoy interactive hands-on workshops and hear from experts in the field. Discover more here.
● Awards Ceremony for the Honorary Fellowship of Rory Cellan-Jones (12th April 2022). Book now.
● Relaxed Opening Day (Monday 18th April). Book now.
● Home Educators Day (Friday 20th May 2022). Discover more here.
Plan your visit to the museum and book on to an upcoming event via the website today: https://www.tnmoc.org/
