A popular science event is set to move online to increase its audience and adapt to the challenges of the coronavirus pandemic.

The REACT Foundation’s free science shows, which reach thousands of young people every year, will move online during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Under normal circumstances, the interactive shows and workshops take place over a fortnight during early autumn in different west Cumbrian schools, with more than 7,500 young people taking part every year.

During the pandemic though, REACT’s interactive science shows will stream directly into classrooms, available for students right across the county for the first time.

The REACT Foundation is delivering two different science shows to schools over three days from Tuesday, December 8 to Thursday, December 10.

The shows are being staged in partnership with Science Made Simple, which offers tailor-made educational experiences for schools.

Bubbles and Balloons is aimed at Key Stage 2 children and Music to Your Ears is aimed at secondary school students in Years 7 to 9, focussing on how sounds are made, recorded and seen.

Pete Woolaghan, co-founder and chair of the REACT Foundation, said: “We were determined to find a way to offer young people the opportunity to take part in our popular science shows despite the ongoing pandemic.

“We realise that holding the shows online isn’t the same but it has allowed us to increase the numbers taking part because we are not restricted by space.

“It means more young people than ever can take advantage of the free shows. Our aim is to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers so the more young people we can reach, the better.

“We know young people have missed out on a lot this year so we are delighted to have found a way to make this work and put on a programme which we hope the students will find interesting and inspiring.”

REACT Foundation, created by React Engineering in 2004, was part of the team that held the groundbreaking Infinity science festival in Cumbria attended by Professor Brian Cox.

The foundation was awarded with The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service in June. It is the highest accolade given to volunteer groups, equivalent to an MBE.

Phil Redfern, managing director of REACT Engineering, said that science shows have made “a big difference” to young people.

He said: “It’s wonderful that the foundation has found a way to provide the same opportunities for young people as it has done in previous years.

“The rolling out of the virtual science shows to students across Cumbria will ensure even more young people are excited and inspired to find out more about science.”