Programme submissions

• Inspiring futures: Does this proposal provide inspiration for all and the spark for future scientists, entrepreneurs, and engineers?
• Reveal wonder: Does this proposal unlock complex ideas and open doors to understanding the beauty and wonder of science?
• Authentic stories: Does it tell an extraordinary story that brings our collection or the subject focus to life?
• Think big: Is this proposal about being bold, nimble and adventurous? Does it celebrate success and push the boundaries?
• Open for all: Is the proposed activity straightforward, accessible and inclusive? Does it bring science to life for all our different audiences?
• Ignite curiosity: Does this proposal provide a spark that fires imagination, passion and expertise? Will it give the resources, skills and confidence for our audiences to take their curiosity to the next level?

• Reach: Would this exhibition appeal to our existing audience segmentation or help us reach new audiences—either locally or globally?
• Inspire: Does the proposal provide an opportunity to develop an innovative, new creative experience of STEM subjects?
• Engage: Does the proposal help to establish a meaningful relationship with our Group-wide teams, the public, scientific and research communities, national and international partners and others in relevant dialogue and debate?
• Sustain: Does the proposal support our ambition to sustain and grow our world-class collection to ensure it is accessible and used effectively by us and others for research, display, learning and pleasure?

• Collection: Does the proposal use or speak directly to our collection through the exploration of the people, places, and engineering marvels behind the railways? Does the proposal support and align with Vision 2025?
• Subject matter: Does the proposal make connections between the cutting-edge innovations shaping our world today and the extraordinary birth and growth of the railways?
• Local/regional: Does the proposal have a Yorkshire or regional angle and is the National Railway Museum the most appropriate place for it to be staged?
• Audiences: Does the proposal speak to our audiences, or new audiences we are seeking to engage?
• Originality: Does the proposal reveal a new idea or fresh perspective?
• Partnerships: Does the proposal help to establish a meaningful relationship with a local organisation or group that will enrich both parties?

As a dedicated space on-gallery to house temporary exhibitions and displays, it is environmentally controlled and was built to Government Indemnity Standards. At 330m², this flexible space can accommodate installations, 2D works of art, large objects, and internationally important works of art, attracting up to 40% of visitors to the museum.

Housing a collection of railway legends from the past 200 years, the Great Hall brings together awe-inspiring objects from the Science Museum Group’s collection alongside global icons. At 8,000m², Great Hall creates an impactful space that attracts the widest audience and largest visitor numbers. Designated areas of 20m² within the gallery are used for temporary exhibitions and displays that speak to the awe-inspiring collection that surround them.

South Yard is a free museum space where visitors can experience the magic of the railways outdoors. Home to the Miniature Railway and an outdoor play area, this is a highly versatile space that allows for creative experiences.