British Science Week

British Science Week (BSW), run by the British Science Association (BSA), is an annual event celebrating science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM). It provides a platform to support teachers, STEM professionals and the public in delivering STEM activities and events across the UK.

It is a fantastic opportunity to showcase amateur radio to new audiences, regardless of age.

British Science Week 2026

British Science Week 2026 will take place from 6–15 March and preparations are already well underway. RSGB British Science Week Co-ordinator Professor Ian Neal, G7IGN is working on guidance and activity suggestions that you could use to get involved. The BSA has chosen ‘Curiosity: what’s your question?’ as its theme for 2026, which fits perfectly with amateur radio.

A whole range of groups of all ages are already planning their events – see what they’re doing and be inspired to get involved! If you would like to share your thoughts, ideas and plans with Ian, get in touch via bsw@rsgb.org.uk

Get involved with BSW 2026 for free!

We’re giving away 400 FM radio receiver kits and Morse code tutor kits for young people to build. This activity is open to school, university, Scout, Girlguiding, Cadet and Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) groups.

This activity builds on the success of last year’s activities and aims to make BSW 2026 bigger and better. The project is being delivered thanks to a partnership between the RSGB Outreach Team, the Radio Communications Foundation and the RSGB Legacy Fund.

What are the kits?

The FM radio kit is a perfect hands-on project and is an opportunity for young people to learn more about radio and electronics. We have six kits to give away to 50 groups that apply.

The BSW Microtutor is an easy-to-build Morse code tutor built around a modern microcontroller. Designed for first-time builders, the printed circuit board uses widely spaced components and extra-large solder pads to make soldering simple and reliable. We have five kits to give to 20 organisations.

Find out more about the kits on page 33 of January’s Radcom.

How do I take part?

All you need to do is to complete a simple form and tell us which of the two kits you’d like to use with your group. Make sure you get your kit – don’t delay!

In exchange for the free kits, all we ask for is a brief report and photos that we can share afterwards to celebrate the activity and inspire other groups to try amateur radio.

Need support to build the kits? We can put you in touch with local radio amateurs who can help.

British Science Week 2025 

The RSGB BSW 2025 campaign was a huge success. Find out about the campaign on the BSW 2025 web page.

Further resources and planned activities

Visit our resources pages where you’ll find a host of ideas to inspire you!