Volcanoes form when hot molten rock (magma) under the ground erupts at the surface, but what causes the molten rock to erupt? Eruptions are often driven by gases escaping…

In this experiment you can start a chemical reaction that creates a gas, and see how the gas escaping drives an eruption.

This experiment and video was devised by the Volcano Seismology group in the Earth Science Department, University of Cambridge.

Download the instructions and information sheet.

We offer facilitated workshops and self-led visits. There is no charge for our school sessions, but we welcome donations to support the Museum learning programme (recommended donation of £3 per child). Get in touch with the Museum Education Coordinator to discus your visit museumeducation@esc.cam.ac.uk

Museum Trails

If you are visiting the Museum with young children, why not download our Rainbow of Colour trail to print out and bring with you? It will keep the children entertained as they look for all the colourful specimens in the Museum, and they can even use it in the garden or any outdoor space too.

 

All bookings are subject to change in accordance with government guidance.

There is no charge for our standard school sessions, but donations are welcomed to support the Museum learning programme (recommended donation of £3 per child).

If you are a UK based school or college (teaching under 18 year olds) wishing to visit the Museum with your class, please use the booking form to make a request.

All other groups should use our group booking form (including international schools) or language school booking form.

Bookings are now open for the 2023/24 school year

Planning, prices and pre-visit information

If you wish to check availability before you complete the form, either email us or call on 01223 331875.

Early Years

Resources for Early Years pupils to aid exploration of the natural world

Key Stage 1

Resources suitable for pupils in Year 1 and Year 2

School Visits

On Wednesdays, the Polar Museum although closed to the general public, will be open for pre-booked school group visits (one morning/one afternoon). Priority will be given to school groups who are visiting as part of a polar project. This arrangement will last until the end of 2021. You will lead your group around the museum accompanied by a member of our education team. We are happy to lend you clipboards and pencils. There is a suggested donation of £1 per child for a class group visit to the Polar Museum.

Artist Kaitlin Ferguson shows you how to make your own ichthyosaur using one of Mary Anning's fossils in the Sedgwick Museum’s collection as inspiration.

There are two different makes that you can try depending on how much time you have.

Make one: Ichthyosaur template

Make two: salt, flour and water to make salt dough (or plasticine or playdough)

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