Dynamic Earth, Edinburgh’s Science Centre and Planetarium, has been named a regional finalist for the Inclusion Award at the 2026 Scottish Thistle Awards, recognising its ongoing commitment to ensure more people can experience, explore and engage with science.

The Central and East finalists were celebrated at The Assembly Rooms in Edinburgh on 17 September, with Dynamic Earth shortlisted alongside Edinburgh International Conference Centre, Edinburgh Zoo, The Enchanted Forest and Rosslyn Chapel.

For Dynamic Earth, inclusion encompasses both the physical measures in place in the venue, but also a commitment to have the right materials in place, so that anyone who enters the building can get the support they need. It is also about continually seeking ways to improve, adapt and have co-design at the centre of its approach, so more people can access science and learning in a fun and engaging way.

One of the centre’s most significant recent developments has been the introduction of British Sign Language (BSL) interpretation across six Planetarium films and live shows. Launched in March 2026 with support from the Birkdale Trust, Dynamic Earth now offers one dedicated BSL-interpreted Planetarium show each day, with BSL interpretation available on request for other sessions.

The BSL-interpreted line-up includes You Are Here, Don’t Panic, CapComGo, We Are Guardians, We Are Stars and We Are Aliens, opening up Dynamic Earth’s immersive space experiences to more deaf visitors and BSL users.

This work builds on two years of Deaf Science Days, developed in collaboration with the University of Edinburgh and Scottish Sensory Centre to create accessible STEM experiences for deaf learners from across Scotland. With support from the Royal Society of Chemistry, the programme has expanded to reach more than 200 participants, across 27 schools. Dynamic Earth is now looking to build on this success and reach even more deaf learners this coming year.

Recently, Dynamic Earth has been awarded a grant from the Changing Places Toilets Scotland Fund to install a Changing Places Toilet (CPT) within the centre. Designed for individuals with complex care needs who require specialist equipment and carer support, the new facility will be available to both visitors and the public during opening hours. This investment, delivered by Inspiring Scotland on behalf of the Scottish Government, marks a significant step in increasing CPT provision in the local area.

These developments form part of a wider accessibility programme at Dynamic Earth, which includes sensory-friendly bags, sensory maps, and relaxed opening days, alongside a fully wheelchair accessible venue, captions across exhibitions and Planetarium shows, and audio guides available in five languages. Staff also receive disability and neurodiversity awareness training to ensure they can provide visitors with support as required.

The centre’s commitment to a more inclusive experience is also reflected in its regular Relaxed days, which which aim to provide which provide a calm and inclusive environment for visitors; designed for those who would benefit from a more relaxed visit, but open to everyone. These sessions prioritise sensory comfort without compromising on the overall Dynamic Earth experience.

The next Relaxed Day takes place on Sunday 20 September, with the full day running from 10am to 5pm. Visitor numbers will be reduced, lighting and audio features adjusted, and additional accessibility resources made available.

Emma Clark, Learning and Engagement Manager (Community Programmes) and Chair of Dynamic Earth’s EDI Committee says: “Being named a finalist for the Thistle Inclusion Award is a wonderful recognition for the work happening across Dynamic Earth to make science, our centre and conversations about the climate emergency accessible to all.

“For us, inclusion is an ongoing journey. It means listening, learning and continually looking at what we can do to remove barriers and ensure people can participate in science in a way that works for them.

“Winning the award would mean a great deal to everyone at Dynamic Earth and would recognise the commitment of our team to creating a space where everyone can be curious, explore and discover.”

With more than 250,000 visitors welcomed each year, around 30,000 learners participating through its schools programme and more than 3,000 people supported via its community programme, Dynamic Earth’s accessibility work has the potential to reach even more people across a wide range of ages, backgrounds and needs, ensuring science is for everyone.