Cardiff Bay, 1 May 2025 — Techniquest, Wales’ pioneering science discovery centre, is celebrating 30 years at its iconic Cardiff Bay location with the launch of a new initiative to help schools continue visiting the venue as a key part of their educational calendar.

Since opening its purpose-built centre on Stuart Street on 1 May 1995, Techniquest has welcomed millions of visitors, becoming a landmark of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education in Wales. The move to the striking waterfront building marked a transformative step for the organisation, which was originally founded in 1986.

To commemorate this milestone, former leaders of Techniquest, including ex-CEO Colin Johnson and founding Chair Rudi Plaut, returned to present a special anniversary card to current CEO Sue Wardle and Chair Dan O’Toole. The card was filled with messages from staff who were there when the building first opened its doors.

Reflecting on the anniversary, Colin Johnson said, “We wanted to mark the date with our successors at Techniquest, at a time when it feels more important than ever that science and other STEM topics are made engaging for all: when the truth of science can help dispel some of the misinformation so prevalent in modern society.”

He praised the dedication of staff across the decades, adding: “It’s a tribute to them all that after millions of visitors the building still looks so great, and that so many visitors emerge smiling.”

Rudi Plaut echoed the sentiment, calling Techniquest’s long-standing support for science education in Wales “a great achievement,” and noting its profound and perhaps immeasurable impact on countless lives.

Marking the occasion, CEO Sue Wardle introduced CATALYST — a new scheme aimed at helping pupils from disadvantaged areas of Wales experience the wonders of STEM learning. The initiative invites businesses to fund visits to Techniquest for entire school classes, covering transport and additional live science activities for just £500 per group.

“With many students still facing barriers to STEM education, and the funding landscape becoming increasingly difficult, our mission remains as vital as it was in 1995,” said Wardle. “We’re hoping to welcome at least 300 classes in the coming year with the support of businesses that share our commitment to inspiring the next generation.”

Techniquest continues to serve as Wales’ largest science discovery centre, offering hands-on learning experiences designed to ignite curiosity in learners of all ages.