Over 400 members of The Boys’ Brigade descended on the Glasgow Science Centre last weekend in celebration of the Junior Section’s 100^th year.

The Junior Section members, aged eight to ten years old, came from 36 different companies from across Scotland to experience the hundreds of interactive exhibitions including the Bodyworks Exhibition, the Powering the Future Exhibit, a live science show, and the state-of-the-art planetarium.

In celebration of the milestone, Junior members have been pushing themselves to complete 100 challenges including trying out a science experiment, attending a sleepover and raising £100 for charity – some of which were completed over the weekend.

John Sharp, Director of The Boys’ Brigade in Scotland said:

“More than 400 Juniors attended the Science Centre sleepover. It’s a fantastic opportunity to give young people the chance to explore new subjects, learn and have a lot of fun.

“We aim to inspire and encourage all our children and young people, something this experience at the Science Centre provides. We are also keen to provide opportunities which are not always found in more formal educational settings, such as the STEM activities the event makes possible.

“I’d like to thank everyone involved, especially the 108 volunteer leaders we had in attendance as well as the centre staff who helped put on a fantastic weekend enjoyed by all. Without them, residential stays like this which give young people essential soft skills, would not be possible.”

The sleepovers have been taking place annually since 2013, and have attracted almost 2000 members, demonstrating the The Boys’ Brigade’s move to encourage more STEM activities as part of its varied educational and fun programmes.

Brian Laurie, Leader with 28th Stirling, said:

“The Science Centre Sleepover is the perfect example of how The Boys Brigade brings today’s youth together in a fun and interactive way that will leave a lasting memory.”

Following the live shows and demonstrations, the Juniors enjoyed story time with hot chocolate around a virtual campfire.

Callum Greer (8), 135^th Glasgow, said:

“I really enjoyed the sleepover. It was amazing!

“My favourite bit was the magic house with the sloping floor. I wanted to go back the Science Centre the next day!’

Gerry McCann, Customer Services Manager of the Glasgow Science Centre, said:

“We are delighted to have The Boys’ Brigade back for their fifth annual sleepover at Glasgow Science Centre. Engaging with uniformed groups is at the core of Glasgow Science Centre’s mission to inspire people of all ages to explore and understand the world around them, and to enjoy and understand science.

“Sleepovers great way for us to introduce young people to concepts of science, technology, engineering and maths in a memorable and engaging way.”

Find out more about The Boys’ Brigade opportunities locally by visiting http://bit.ly/joinBBscot

Photos from the event are available to view here.

Tags: Juniors100