A charitable trust dedicated to improving science learning in the classroom for thousands of primary aged students in the Hutt Valley is launching an urgent appeal for business sponsors so it can continue to operate in the region.

The House of Science’s Hutt Valley branch ‘Hutt Science’ is facing a critical funding challenge with the impending cessation of generous financial support from Hutt City Council and Upper Hutt Council.

For the past nine years, Hutt Science has been dedicated to improving science learning in classrooms across the Hutt Valley by providing innovative and comprehensive curriculum-based science resource kits. These kits, distributed to 67 schools and 15,000 students in the region, have been instrumental in boosting resources and increasing teachers’ confidence in delivering engaging science lessons.

Established in 2014, the House of Science concept was born out of the dire need revealed by an ERO report indicating that over 70% of New Zealand schools lacked an effective science program. Since its inception, founder and CEO Chris Duggan and her team have been empowering teachers to deliver captivating science lessons, ensuring that all children have access to quality science education.

Chris Duggan emphasises the pivotal role of House of Science in primary school science education, stating, “Most primary teachers in New Zealand lack the expertise and confidence to teach science. The House of Science resource library has filled a gaping hole in the country’s education system and is making serious inroads in alleviating the issues above.”

A 2023 House of Science survey of 350 teachers nationwide found 95% of teachers have increased their understanding of science thanks to House of Science and 97% of teachers reported most or all students are engaged as a result of using the science kits.

“Our kits work because they are easy for teachers to use. It also builds teacher confidence, capability and capacity – we have upskilled more than 2,000 teachers to date,” said Duggan.

Now, as Hutt Science faces a funding crisis, the organisation urgently appeals to business sponsors and donors to ensure its continued operation. Without support, thousands of primary-aged students in the Hutt Valley will lose access to these invaluable science resources.

Businesses reap the benefits because they get brand exposure on the kits and are fulfilled because they are helping the next generation improve their science skills, says Duggan.

“Our team of branch managers provide opportunities for sponsors to connect with local schools, through classroom visits and field trips. This helps build community relationships and brand awareness for the business sponsor.”

House of Science (HoS) is one of many charities that relies on savvy business owners to back them.

“Many people assume the government pays for things like science equipment in primary schools and are shocked when they realize that’s not the case. Businesses can make a huge difference for a small investment. It costs just $3,000 per annum to ‘adopt a kit’. That one kit will reach more than 1,000 students each year. It is incredible ‘bang for buck’ and tax deductible.

Phillipa Adam, Education and Community Engagement Manager for Dairy NZ, who sponsors House of Science, recommends being a House of Science sponsor. “From a business perspective, they have a good reach and deliver excellent value – their resources are bilingual, and they run a sustainable model.”

Supporting STEM education not only benefits students and schools but also offers businesses an opportunity to engage with their communities and invest in the future workforce. It’s a win-win scenario that fosters innovation, growth, and sustainability.

House of Science is actively seeking $100,000 to sustain its operations in the Hutt Valley. To support this endeavor, the charitable trust has launched a Givealittle campaign where individuals can contribute towards this vital cause.

If you or your business is interested in sponsoring a House of Science kit, get in touch with Chris Duggan at chris.duggan@houseofscience.nz