Techniquest

Tributes to inspirational Techniquest founder Professor John Beetlestone

January 13, 2017

Techniquest has paid tribute to its inspirational founder Professor John Beetlestone, whose vision brought accessible scientific learning to millions of children across Wales.

The Professor, who founded the Cardiff-based science discovery centre in 1985, has sadly passed away at the age of 84 following a short illness.

The Cardiff University professor and his colleagues first set up the educational charity in a gas showroom opposite Cardiff Castle – where Burger King stands today.

They then moved the scientific centre and 100 exhibitions to Cardiff Bay, where the team began to focus on providing educational programmes for schools that make scientific learning more accessible and fun.

Now 30 years on, the centre has over 120 interactive exhibitions and connects with millions of schoolchildren and schools around Wales every year, linking in with the latest Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (Stem) agenda.

Techniquest CEO Lesley Kirkpatrick said Professor Beetlestone’s contribution to the advancement of scientific education would continue to benefit children across Wales for generations to come.

She said: “We were deeply saddened to hear of the passing of our beloved founder Professor John Beetlestone.

“We would like to pass on our condolences to all his family and friends and to those he inspired with his passion for science.

“Professor Beetlestone dedicated his life to making science and technology more accessible and enjoyable for children and adults alike across Wales and beyond.

“He leaves behind an impressive legacy which will continue to educate and capture the imagination of the future generations of aspiring scientists.

“He was an inspiration to us all and we are honoured to carry on his good work here at the centre.”

Plan your visit

Opening hours

During local school holidays
10.00am–5.00pm Bank Holidays,
seven days a week.

School term
Monday: Closed
Tuesday–Friday: 9.30am–4.30pm
Saturday and Sunday: 10.00am–5.00pm

Find out more

Support us

 

Find us

  • Techniquest, Stuart Street, Cardiff, CF10 5BW

Contact us

  • info@techniquest.org
  • 029 2047 5475
    Mon–Fri: 9am–5pm Sat–Sun: 10am–5pm
    While we always endeavour to answer calls, when the centre is busy it may not always be possible.
    If you leave us a message we will respond to you as quickly as we can.

Opening hours

  • Techniquest’s opening hours vary — visit the Opening Times page to find out the current hours.

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FAQs

  •   What is Techniquest?

    Techniquest is an educational charity, with a science centre in Cardiff Bay. Our mission is to embed science in Welsh culture through interactive engagement. We provide a range of services to schools and teachers to complement formal education provision in Wales and work extensively with public audiences.

  •   Where can I park?

    We are pleased to be able to offer all of our visitors discounted parking with Q-Park, our preferred parking partner.

    The Q-Park operates the Cardiff Bay car park in Pierhead Street which is around 8 minutes walk from Techniquest.

    We have agreed a special discount rate for our customers of 15% off all pre-bookings.
    Pre-book and guarantee your space here using the code TECHNI15.

    There are also nearby pay-and-display car parks on Stuart Street and Havannah Street. Please do not park on Havannah Street itself.

    We regret that there is no parking on-site at Techniquest.

  •   Who is it for?

    Techniquest is suitable for all ages! We do have special events for certain groups, however — see Toddler Days and Home Educator days.

  • I have a different question.

    Please see our dedicated FAQ page.

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