W5 Belfast marks 25 years of hands-on science with new era of learning
Belfast’s interactive science centre W5 is marking 25 years since opening in March 2001, celebrating a quarter-century of hands-on discovery that has drawn more than six million learners and visitors. Located at the Odyssey complex and named for the five fundamental questions of discovery — Who, What, Where, When and Why — W5 set out to challenge traditional perceptions of science learning.
It has become one of Northern Ireland’s most recognisable educational destinations, working with schools, communities and industry partners to complement classroom teaching and open pathways into STEM careers. “For 25 years, W5 has been a place where curiosity comes alive — a space where young people discover that science is something they can explore, question and shape for themselves,” said Victoria Denoon, Head of W5.
“As we celebrate this milestone, we’re also looking ahead. Our focus is on breaking down barriers to STEM learning, widening participation, and ensuring every community feels welcomed, represented and inspired here.” The centre has evolved alongside advances in STEM and changes in how people learn.
A multi-million-pound redevelopment in 2020 transformed the experience, enhancing its 250 exhibits and eight interactive zones to reflect contemporary scientific thinking and real-world innovation. That was followed in 2022 by the opening of W5 LIFE (Learning Innovation for Everyone), a 20,000 sq.
ft digital learning facility on the site of the former Bambu Beach Club. The hub was created to meet rising demand for digital and STEM skills across Northern Ireland, delivering industry-aligned programmes with organisations including Microsoft and The King’s Trust.
“At its core, W5 has always been about creating opportunities for people to engage with STEM in ways that are meaningful and memorable,” said Judith Harvey, Group Head of Learning and Engagement at The Odyssey Trust.
“Over the past 25 years, we have worked closely with schools and educators across the island of Ireland to develop programmes that support curriculum learning, while also encouraging critical thinking and a lifelong love of learning.” To mark the anniversary, W5 has given away 25 Silver Tickets, including 20 annual family passes and five free visits for schools or community groups.
Members of the public were invited to nominate deserving families, schools or organisations. Denoon said the mission for the next chapter remains clear: keeping science learning accessible, inclusive and transformative. “W5 has always been about more than exhibits; it’s about building confidence and raising aspirations and creating opportunities that help people see their place in a rapidly changing world.”