The Future of Science at New Scientist Live!
Pupils in Year 4 enjoyed an unforgettable day at New Scientist Live 2026 at ExCeL London, exploring the latest discoveries and innovations in science, technology, engineering and medicine through an incredible range of hands-on exhibitions and interactive experiences.
One of the highlights was an immersive journey to the centre of the Milky Way inside a dome cinema, where pupils travelled through space and discovered the extraordinary scale and wonders of our galaxy.
Back on Earth, pupils explored the fascinating world of robotics and artificial intelligence. They raced and danced alongside robots, programmed machines to complete different tasks and discovered how technology can be used to solve real-world problems. At the Middlesex University exhibition, pupils explored machine learning by teaching remote-controlled cars how to navigate a circuit, gaining an insight into the technology behind autonomous vehicles.
The Future of Healthcare exhibition offered a fascinating glimpse into how visiting the doctor might change over the next 50 years. Pupils explored how light and sound-based technologies can help doctors see inside the body, learning about the science behind medical imaging and disease prevention. They also interacted with realistic medical training equipment, including life-sized patient simulators with a detectable pulse, discovering how healthcare professionals develop their skills and practise medical procedures. The exhibition also introduced the possibilities of artificial intelligence in medical diagnosis and how digital technologies could transform patient care.
From hospitals to fields, Year 4 discovered the Future of Food and Agriculture. Pupils encountered humanoid robots designed to support farmers and were amazed by one of the largest smart combine harvesters they had ever seen! The exhibition demonstrated how robotics, artificial intelligence and precision farming could transform the way food is produced. Pupils also learned how cutting-edge AI can help monitor wildlife on farms, highlighting the importance of balancing technological innovation with environmental sustainability.
Another exciting highlight was Ministry of Science Live!, a spectacular interactive science show filled with demonstrations, experiments and audience participation. With its message that everyone has the potential to become a scientist, engineer or inventor, the show encouraged pupils to think ambitiously about their futures and the discoveries they might one day make.
