Forces
Gravity
Explore how gravity affects objects on Earth, keeps planets and moons in orbit and helps shape stars, solar systems and galaxies.
Astronomy for schools
Bring space science to life
Interactive science and space shows designed specifically to inspire pupils and reinforce classroom learning in Years 5 and 6.
Enquire about a school show
Designed for Years 5 and 6
Science pupils can see, question and remember
The Starsmith delivers engaging astronomy shows created to support science and space learning across upper Key Stage 2.
Through live demonstrations, audience participation, dramatic imagery and clear explanations, pupils explore some of the biggest ideas in science, from gravity and the speed of light to telescopes, space observatories and the scale of the universe.
Curriculum learning
Reinforcing classroom science
Complex ideas are introduced in an accessible and memorable way, helping pupils connect classroom learning with the real universe around them.
Light and distance
The speed of light
Discover how quickly light travels, how long it takes to cross the Solar System and why observing distant space means looking back in time.
Observation
How telescopes work
Learn how telescopes collect and focus light, why larger telescopes reveal fainter objects and how astronomers see beyond the limits of the human eye.
Environment
Light pollution
Discover how artificial light changes our view of the night sky, affects nocturnal wildlife and why reducing unnecessary light benefits both astronomy and the natural world.
Learning through demonstration
Turning abstract ideas into memorable experiences
Astronomy contains ideas that can be difficult to picture from a textbook alone. Practical demonstrations, visual comparisons and audience participation help pupils understand what those ideas really mean.
Pupils explore the speed of light across the Solar System, discover how telescopes gather light and investigate how gravity controls motion throughout the universe.
What pupils experience
Inclusive, interactive and full of wonder
Interactive journeys through space
Practical science demonstrations
Large scale astronomy imagery
Questions, challenges and participation
Clear explanations of difficult ideas
Links to real astronomical research
The school show is an indoor presentation and does not require clear skies or outdoor observing.
How the school visit works
Two shows for two classes
Each school visit includes two performances of the same carefully designed show.
Each performance is suitable for one average sized class, with a maximum of 30 pupils. Schools can book the two performances for two classes in the same year group, such as two Year 5 classes, or for one Year 5 class and one Year 6 class.
- Two performances are delivered during the school visit
- Each performance is for one class of up to 30 pupils
- Both performances can be for two classes in the same year group
- Alternatively, one performance can be for Year 5 and one for Year 6
- The show follows a carefully designed, consistent programme
- A suitable indoor hall or classroom space is required
Hosting the show
Straightforward to organise
A suitable indoor space is required, together with access to electricity and enough time for setup before pupils arrive.
Room, access and technical requirements will be discussed with you in advance.
Bring The Starsmith to your school
Inspire the next question
Planning a science topic, STEM week or enrichment event for Years 5 and 6? Get in touch to discuss dates, pupil numbers, timings and the learning themes you would like the show to reinforce.