Generation Science, the programme that delivers hands-on, curriculum- linked workshops and science shows to schools across Scotland, marks its 21st birthday this year.

Part of the Edinburgh International Science Festival, Generation Science 2012 will run from 30 January to 25 May and deliver a programme of 16 shows and workshops, directly linked to Curriculum for Excellence.

Four new workshops - Rainforest Rangers, Marine Detectives, Power from the People, delivered in partnership with Glasgow arts organisation NVA, and Make a Move, which combines human biology and futuristic technology in the making of artificial limbs, have been added to the programme for 2012.

“Science is a practical subject and our team works hard to provide support to busy teachers, many of whom lack fit-for-purpose facilities, technical support and the confidence to teach practical science both in and out of the classroom,” said Joan Davidson, general manager of Generation Science.

“Generation Science supports schools and teachers all over Scotland and aims to inspire children to choose science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) as a career.”

Last year, Generation Science visited more than 600 schools in 29 Scottish council areas. Outside Scotland, it worked for the first time with pupils in Abu Dhabi at its first science festival.

The show was presented very well and was engaging for all pupils, said Heather Marshall, a teacher at Mount Cameron Primary in East Kilbride.

“It related well to our current science topic and allowed the children to take their learning outside the classroom. Staff and pupils really enjoyed it and I learned new things.”

A teacher from St Brigid’s Primary in Newmains said the real-life applications of science had incorporated the pupils’ maths lesson about angles and degrees.