Our March SMS HUB session took young people on an adventure far beyond their screens and into the wonders of the universe. Joining from across Scotland, the group came together online for an evening filled with space‑themed fun, imagination and curiosity, discovering new worlds, sharing ideas, and exploring big questions about what lies beyond our planet.
The highlight of the session was Professor Catherine Heymans, the Astronomer Royal for Scotland, who shared her knowledge of the universe and answer the young people’s questions about space. Commenting on the HUB our Coordinator, Eilidh Findlay said:
What I loved most about this session was seeing how the space activities naturally encouraged the young people to use their self-management skills. From sharing ideas in the scavenger hunt to designing their own planets, they showed confidence, creativity, and brilliant problem solving. It was wonderful to see them supporting each other and recognising the strengths they already have.
The SMS HUB brings together young people aged 9–17 with health conditions across Scotland. Although it is an online space, children and young people still connect, build friendships, and explore activities that support their wellbeing and confidence. This month, we looked beyond the cosmos!
Starting Our Space Adventure
We began the session with a lively space themed scavenger hunt. We challenged the young people to find something round like a planet, something shiny like a star, and something they would take with them on a journey into space. This icebreaker that got everyone involved and sharing their ideas before we began exploring the wonders of the universe together.
Creating New Worlds
Next, the group used their creativity to design their own planets. Young people imagined what their planets might look like, what creatures might live there, and whether their worlds might have rings, and moons. The activity sparked lots of imaginative thinking and conversation as each young person created a unique new world.
Learning More About Space
A fun space quiz followed, where the group tested their knowledge of the universe. From discovering surprising facts about planets to learning more about stars and astronauts, the quiz helped everyone start thinking about the big questions they might ask about space.
A Very Special Guest
The most exciting part of the evening was welcoming Professor Catherine Heymans to the session. As the Astronomer Royal for Scotland, Catherine studies the universe and helps people better understand the mysteries of space. It was a fantastic opportunity for the young people to meet a real scientist and ask their own questions about the cosmos. From wondering about black holes to asking how astronomers study objects that are billions of light years away, the discussion was full of curiosity and excitement. Having someone of Catherine’s experience join the session made the evening feel incredibly special. It gave young people a chance to see that science and space exploration are not just things they read about, they are fields that real people work in every day, and careers that could be possible for them in the future.
A Memorable HUB Session
This SMS HUB session showed how powerful it can be to connect young people with inspiring guests and new ideas. The chance to meet Catherine Heymans and ask questions about the universe made the evening particularly memorable, leaving everyone with a sense of wonder about the world beyond our planet.
We’re incredibly grateful to Catherine for taking the time to join the HUB and share her passion for space. It was a truly stellar evening that the young people won’t forget!
To refer a child or young person to join an SMS Programme, CLICK HERE!
