Barton Science Centre

A world-class hub for teaching, learning, innovation and discovery

Tonbridge’s state-of-the-art Barton Science Centre, which opened for teaching in January 2019, puts science and technology at the very heart of the school. 

One of the most ambitious developments to happen on the campus since the first science building was constructed in 1887, the three-storey centre combines new classrooms and latest technology with many original architectural features.

Named after British organic chemist Sir Derek Barton, an Old Tonbridgian who won the Nobel Prize 50 years ago in 1969, the centre places Tonbridge at the cutting edge of school science. It will also help the school to realise its ambitions of stimulating future generations in their studies and inspiring many to embark on scientific careers.

We believe very strongly in two things. Firstly, that in an increasingly technological society facing all sorts of urgent global challenges, every young person needs to be equipped with a good understanding of science. Secondly, to meet those global challenges, we need new technologies based on a new generation of young scientific minds. Tonbridge, as an institution, wants to help inspire that new generation.

The Barton Science Centre will also have a wider public benefit as a regional hub and centre of excellence. Tonbridge plans, for instance, to expand its popular programme of ‘Science for Schools’ days for local primary and secondary pupils, and will also be staging public lectures and a variety of other events.

In the week commencing 18 March 2019 Tonbridge became the first school in the UK to host 'Mission Discovery', a course in which young people designed an experiment to be carried out on the International Space Station. Pupils from various schools also had the opportunity to meet, and hear talks by, NASA astronauts.

A Student Science Conference, an Art Exhibition, a Science Competition for Year 9 and Year 10 pupils and The Planets concert by the school's Symphony Orchestra also marked the launch of the Barton Science Centre, in the run-up to the official opening on Saturday 23 March.

The Departments of Chemistry, Biology and Physics now enjoy greatly expanded facilities, including new laboratories and classrooms. The Barton Science Centre includes an interactive periodic table, a giant TV wall, its own bee hive, a roof garden, a greenhouse and three departmental libraries, to name just a few of its features.

Building the Barton Science Centre

Barton science centre in the NEWS

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