What is a Microscope Activity Kit?
Find out more about the RMS Microscope Activity Kit Scheme, our free science resource for Primary Schools.
The Microscope Activity Kit scheme has been running successfully for over 15 years. To ensure it continues to provide the best possible experience, we’re giving the scheme some well-deserved TLC.
From July 2026, the Microscope Activity Kit scheme will be paused while we refresh and improve the kits, ready for an exciting relaunch in 2028.
There is currently no waiting list and no further information available. Please continue to check our website for the latest updates and information about the scheme’s relaunch.
Updated October 2026.
While the scheme is undergoing some important maintenance, why not visit the Resources for School Children and Microscope Activity Resources Library below? You’ll find some fun, hands-on activities to try at home or in the classroom — perfect for curious young scientists!
Or why not request an award-winning Science and Engineering 'Curiosity Box'? Designed with scientists from Oxford University, these exciting activity boxes are packed with ideas to inspire questions, spark imagination and encourage children to explore the wonderful world of science and engineering or register for a Teacher 'Virus Factory in School' Resource Pack with the Rosalind Franklin Institute and run your very own workshop?
The Curiosity Box
The Curiosity Box creates and makes award-winning science and engineering boxes that deliver everything you need to nurture your child’s passion for discovery, experimentation and exploration.
They have a range of subscriptions and one off boxes for 4-11 year olds AND their families. Each box is packed full of fun and fascinating curriculum-linked activities, designed with Oxford University scientists to encourage curiosity-led learning.
They've also developed the STEM Day in a Box. Resource kits for primary schools and other groups for 7-11 year olds. These boxes contain everything you need to run science/engineering themed workshops or days.
Virus Factory in Schools
From the Rosalind Franklin Institute 'Virus Factory in Schools' - A resource pack about microbiology, microscopes, artificial intelligence, and citizen science, from the Rosalind Franklin Institute. Empower your students to see themselves as real scientists and connect what they learn in school to science discoveries today, by contributing to real science research in the classroom. Learn about viruses, microbiology, microscopes and computer algorithms in the context of the online citizen science project Virus Factory.
Microscope Activity Resource Library
Classroom microscopy activities, lesson plans, and school curriculum information.
Resources for School Children
There are many online resources for children and young people to utilise whilst they are learning at home. Here are some useful links that we have gathered together for you to share.