W5 is celebrating its 25th anniversary as Northern Ireland's premier science and discovery centre. Since its inception in March 2001 as a cornerstone of the Odyssey development, the centre has seen more than six million learners and visitors engage with its hands-on STEM (science, technology, engineering, and maths) exhibits.

The centre's name is derived from the five pillars of discovery: Who, What, Where, When, and Why. It was established with the goal of challenging conventional science education and sparking curiosity across all age groups. Over two and a half decades, W5 has integrated itself into the educational landscape of Northern Ireland, partnering with schools, industry leaders, and local communities to provide inclusive learning pathways, particularly for those facing barriers to STEM.

Victoria Denoon, Head of W5, stated: "For 25 years, W5 has been a place where curiosity comes alive — a space where young people discover that science is something they can explore, question and shape for themselves. For many visitors, W5 is the moment they realise that STEM is for them."

She added: "As we celebrate this milestone, we're also looking ahead. Our focus is on breaking down barriers to STEM learning, widening participation, and ensuring that every community feels welcome, represented, and inspired here. W5 has always been about more than exhibits; it's about building confidence, raising aspirations, and creating opportunities that help people see their place in a rapidly changing world. We're proud of the impact W5 has had over the past 25 years, and we remain committed to keeping science learning accessible, inclusive and transformative for generations to come." The facility has evolved significantly over the years. A multi-million-pound redevelopment in 2020 modernised its 250 exhibits and eight interactive zones. This was followed in 2022 by the launch of W5 LIFE (Learning Innovation for Everyone), a 20,000 sq. ft digital learning hub created to meet the demand for digital skills. This facility operates alongside partners such as Microsoft and The King's Trust.

Judith Harvey, Group Head of Learning and Engagement at The Odyssey Trust, noted: "At its core, W5 has always been about creating opportunities for people to engage with STEM in ways that are meaningful and memorable. For many young people, experiences here can be the spark that encourages them to explore STEM subjects further. Over the past 25 years, we have worked closely with schools and educators across the island of Ireland to develop programmes that support curriculum learning, while also encouraging critical thinking and a lifelong love of learning. The redevelopment of W5 and the opening of W5 LIFE have allowed us to deepen that work, providing new spaces where learners can begin to see how STEM connects to the world around them."

As part of The Odyssey Trust, a charitable organisation that also manages The SSE Arena and the Belfast Giants, W5 remains central to the mission of advancing public scientific knowledge.

Martin McDowell, Chair of The Odyssey Trust, commented: "W5 is a powerful example of what can be achieved through long-term and sustained investment in education and community engagement. For 25 years, W5 has played a vital role in broadening access to science and discovery, while inspiring curiosity and ambition in people of all ages. As a charity, The Odyssey Trust is committed to creating opportunities that have lasting social and economic impact. W5 sits at the heart of that mission - not only as a leading visitor destination, but as a platform for learning, skills development, and innovation. This milestone is an opportunity to reflect on the difference W5 has made over the past quarter century, and to reaffirm our commitment to supporting its continued growth and relevance in the years ahead."

To commemorate the anniversary, W5 distributed 25 'Silver Tickets' via public nominations, awarding 20 annual family passes and five free group visits to schools or community organisations. The occasion was also marked by a special event at the centre for staff, partners, and supporters.