What is UKSEDS ?

SEDS is the world's largest space enthusiast organisation for both school and university students. Anyone who is interested can become a member of UKSEDS, young or old, student or non-student. The organisation was founded in the US in 1980 by students at MIT and Princeton University and is continuing to grow, currently having more than 60 branches worldwide. UKSEDS was formed in 1988 and is one of the fastest growing national SEDS groups.

Purpose

To promote the exploration of space, and the research and development of space-related technologies.
To provide a forum through which students can become involved in the international space community.
To motivate students to excel in space-related fields.
To share in the advancing knowledge and growing benefits to be reaped from space.
To improve space-related education through both academic work and hands-on projects.

SEDS itself organises "Teacher Workshops" such as the one held at the Cranfield Institute of Technology in the spring of 1992. The need for this has sharply risen in the past few years since the inclusion of space and astronomy on the National Curriculum. These courses cover a wide range of teaching abilities, the general aim being to introduce space into the classroom. Other successful events include "Space Education Days" intended for 7-18 year olds. These are one day events hosted by a particular school and are also aimed at bringing space technology and science into the classroom. Space Education Days take the form of lectures, exhibitions and simulations and also provide Teacher Packs to ensure the continued interest and education of the children.

UKSEDS holds an annual National Conference, which brings together students throughout the country to learn more about space and to meet professionals in the space business.

On our education pages you can meet the current Education Committee and find our more about UKSEDS activities in this area. If you have any queries, please email the Education Committee.

International involvement

A number of student exchanges have been organised via UKSEDS. In late 1993 a Russian exchange occurred which not only allowed Russian students to visit Britain but also British students to visit and experience the Russian space programme and culture.