Science Oxford: Family Days

• Two-hour timeslot in the Exploration Zone
• Access to the woodland and outdoor areas from 10am–5pm (last entry 4.30pm)
• Access to outdoor Water Lab from April – October (change of clothes recommended)
• Parking (limited availability, see facilities for details)

What’s not included:

• STEM Clubs

Food and drink: Emira’s Kitchen, the visitor café at the Science Oxford Centre, is open on Saturdays from 10.00am to 4.00pm, serving hot and cold drinks, snacks and rolls. Visitors are also welcome to bring their own refreshments and picnics to enjoy at the indoor and outdoor picnic tables. All visitors require a valid ticket.

Bike parking: Secure bike parking is available on site.

Car parking: Limited on-site parking is available at weekends on a first-come, first-served basis. Visitors are advised to check alternative parking and travel options before their visit. Those requiring accessible parking should contact events@scienceoxford.com in advance to make arrangements.

Accessibility and additional support: Science Oxford’s experienced team works to ensure activities are accessible and engaging for all children. Families with specific access requirements or additional support needs are encouraged to contact events@scienceoxford.com ahead of their visit. Accessible resources are also available.

Carer tickets: One free carer ticket is available when accompanying a cared-for person. Free carer tickets can be booked via the ‘Add On’ option during the Eventbrite checkout process. One carer ticket is permitted per cared-for attendee.

Proof of eligibility: Visitors booking a free carer ticket may be asked to provide supporting documentation on arrival. Accepted forms of evidence include:

• Gateway Card, Max Card or Access Card
• Disability Living Allowance (DLA) or Attendance Allowance award letter
• Personal Independence Payment (PIP) award letter
• A letter from a GP or consultant confirming the need for a carer, personal assistant or essential companion
• Blue Badge (or a copy)
• Carer’s Allowance award letter
• Carer ID card or letter issued by a local authority

Sensory-Friendly Family Days: Science Oxford regularly hosts Sensory-Friendly Family Days, designed for families with autistic children, those with additional needs, or visitors who prefer a quieter, reduced-capacity experience. These sessions provide a more relaxed environment while maintaining access to the Centre’s hands-on exhibits and activities.

Additional support during visits: To create a more comfortable experience, visitor numbers are reduced, loud exhibits are clearly signposted, hand dryers are switched off and replaced with hand towels, ear defenders are available on request, lighting is dimmed, and displays show how much time remains in each session.

Quiet spaces: Visitors who require a quiet space during their visit can speak to a member of staff for assistance.

Preparing for a visit: Families are encouraged to view the Family Day Visual Story before arriving to help familiarise children with the Centre and what to expect. A virtual 360-degree tour and additional accessibility resources are also available online.

General enquiries: For all event booking and visiting queries, visitors should contact the Centre by email to events@scienceoxford.com. A response is typically provided within 24–48 hours, although replies may take longer over weekends.

Urgent assistance: For urgent queries or immediate support, visitors can call 01865 810000, Monday to Saturday during office hours.

Ticketing information: Details on refund policies and event terms and conditions are available via the Centre’s website. Tickets are refundable up to 48 hours before the scheduled event.

Group bookings: Enquiries for group visits should be directed to the Centre’s team via email for further information and arrangements.

Safeguarding and privacy: Science Oxford is committed to safeguarding the privacy, safety and wellbeing of all children and young people visiting the Centre.

Photography and filming by visitors: Visitors are welcome to take photos and videos of the children in their care, provided parental permission has been given. Visitors are encouraged to share their experience on social media and tag @scienceoxford. However, they are asked not to photograph or film children who are not in their care, and not to share images of other people’s children online without parental consent.

Photography and filming by Science Oxford: The Centre may occasionally photograph or film events for promotional, reporting and archival purposes, including use on social media, websites or in local media. Visitors will be notified in advance and can opt in via Eventbrite when booking or on the day, or opt out at the event.

Privacy information: Science Oxford is part of The Oxford Trust. Further details can be found in the organisation’s privacy policy and related events and data policies.