Developed in collaboration with Robertson Construction Eastern, Aberdeen Science Centre is introducing a new construction-themed activity area in its exhibition space.

The Mini Construction Zone, located within its existing Make It Zone, will engage young visitors in role-play and hands-on activities related to building and construction work.

In line with its commitment to promoting futures in the construction industry, Robertson is sponsoring the Mini Construction Zone which will include foam bricks, toy tools and dress-up items like hard hats and hi-vis vests, in addition to showcasing details about careers in the building sector and local construction projects.

Alongside its collaboration with Robertson, Aberdeen Science Centre has partnered with NorthLink Ferries, which will support its schools engagement programme for the 2025/26 academic year, including providing funding for travel, entry and science workshop delivery for up to 50 local school pupils.

In addition to this, the Scottish ferry operator will support Aberdeen Science Centre in running a series of hands-on STEM activities at the centre’s booth Tall Ships Discovery Zone in the city centre’s Castlegate area from 19-22 July.

Aberdeen Science Centre staff will be offering nautical-themed games and science demonstrations for visitors to the Castlegate Discovery Zone throughout Tall Ships, which will see participants building small boats and discovering how items sink or float in water, among other fun activities.

Charlie Trupo, fundraising manager at Aberdeen Science Centre, said: “We are thrilled to receive support from Robertson Group and NorthLink Ferries, and collaborating with these organisations will help us to widen the scope and impact of our various STEM engagements in the local area. Our new partnerships with each organisation reflect the incredible value of working with industry to inspire the next generation of innovators, and we are incredibly grateful to begin our relationship with them this summer.”

Gordon Milne, regional managing director at Robertson Construction Eastern, said: “Sponsoring and helping create the Mini Construction Zone is a great way for us to support STEM learning in a fun, hands-on setting. Social impact is a big part of what we do, and this builds on the work already happening across our projects in Aberdeen. It’s important that young people can see how the built environment takes shape and understand the career opportunities within the sector. We are hoping this helps inspire a new generation to consider a role in the built environment.”

On supporting the centre’s school’s programme, Magnus Dixon, marketing manager for Serco NorthLink Ferries, said: “We are very pleased to be supporting Aberdeen Science Centre’s schools engagement programme. By providing free transport and admission for local school groups, we’re helping remove barriers so children can explore, learn, and be inspired through hands-on STEM workshops and interactive exhibits. We are also proud to support the Aberdeen Science Centre’s Boat Builders activity within the Tall Ships Discovery Zone. By inviting families to get hands-on with shipbuilding as well as viewing the impressive Tall Ships in the harbour, we hope to inspire a deeper appreciation for the ships that connect Scotland’s communities.”

Charlie continued: “Corporate and industry sponsorship is integral to allowing us to continue delivering engaging activities for the North-east of Scotland, in addition to helping safeguard the legacy of Scotland’s oldest science centre. We are always open to exploring new partnerships with businesses which are looking to support local charities, and we encourage organisations who share our passion to get in touch today.”

In addition to corporate sponsorship opportunities, the visitor attraction, which is open seven days a week, also offers exclusive venue and room hire for corporate, social, and private events.