The broadcaster has collected an honorary doctorate from the University
TV presenter and former Royal Marine JJ Chalmers has been awarded an honorary doctorate by Edinburgh Napier University for a remarkable career, which has taken him from military service to many of the world’s biggest events.
Born and raised in Edinburgh, John-James began his career as a teacher, while also taking up his journey of service, which led to the Royal Marines with 42 Commando.
Since sustaining life-changing injuries during a tour of duty in Afghanistan, he has made his name as an athlete at the Invictus Games and latterly become a widely known broadcaster.
Viewers will know him from his presentation of major sporting events, including TV coverage of the Olympics and Paralympics, while has also co-hosted the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, fronted documentaries, and even appeared as a contestant of Strictly Come Dancing.
In 2018, JJ also delivered an address as part of Edinburgh Napier’s Chancellor Talks series, entitled Finding Your Commando Spirit. His lecture gave an account of his personal journey, reflecting on how he confronted and overcame profound adversity.
JJ has been honoured by Edinburgh Napier University in recognition of his extraordinary service and his ongoing contribution to public life.
The award of Doctor of the University was presented during a ceremony for students from ENU’s School of Health and Social Care on Thursday [29 October 2026].
JJ Chalmers said: “It’s a huge privilege. I love what I do for a living, so to be recognised for doing the thing I love is an unbelievable privilege.
“I am aware that I’ve been very fortunate to have a platform as a result of my profession, and I like to think that some of the stuff that I’ve done might have made some sort of impact on the world.
“To have that recognised today just reminds me to keep going, to keep doing everything I possibly can to help others.”
Presenting his honorary degree, Professor Gerri Matthews-Smith, Founder and Director of ENU’s Centre for Military Research, Education & Public Engagement, said: “JJ Chalmers stands as a living testament to resilience, adaptability and service, embodying the principle that adversity can serve as a catalyst for reinvention.
“His journey illustrates that true leadership is defined not solely by rank or title, but by the capacity to inspire others through courage, perseverance, and example.
“Reflecting on his story, we are reminded that the measure of a life is not determined by the challenges one encounters, but by the will to rise beyond them and the ability to guide others toward hope, purpose and renewal.”
Scottish Liberal Democrat leader and MSP for Edinburgh Northwestern, Alex Cole-Hamilton, has welcomed targeted action by Police in North West Edinburgh this week.
Cole-Hamilton thanked officers who successfully seized three Sur-Ron bikes as part of a ‘day of action’, as well as weapons, two motorcycles and mobile phones.
Police Officers carried out a day of action in the North West of Edinburgh, executing 2 warrants as part of ongoing enquiries into motor vehicle thefts and serious assaults.
During their execution, officers seized:
– 3 Sur-Ron bikes
– 2 Motorcycles
– Weapons
– Mobile Phones
– Various vehicle keys and V5 documentation
Two individuals were traced, arrested and charged in connection with the enquiries.
Further inquiries are ongoing into the items seized.
A third individual was also traced during the enquiries and arrested on his 11 outstanding warrants.
The action comes as a petition lodged to the Scottish Parliament by Liberal Democrat councillor for Almond, Lewis Younie, calling on the Scottish Government to give Police Scotland and local councils additional resources to tackle dangerous, high-powered motorbikes and electric bikes on local footpath networks.
Alex Cole-Hamilton MSP said:“People in Edinburgh are lucky to have an extensive and growing network of cycle paths connecting our communities but navigating them has become intimidating and dangerous due to high-speed, illegally modified e-bikes frequently appearing on our routes.
“We have all seen the dangers these e-bikes cause, including, in some tragic cases, fatalities and serious injuries that impact numerous lives.
“Bikes capable of excessive speeds without pedalling are not permitted on public footpaths under current law, but without adequate resources, enforcement has been an uphill battle.
“To give residents permanent confidence on their local paths, the Scottish Government must back our police forces with dedicated resources to crack down on illegal sellers, intercept dangerous riders, and keep our public spaces safe for everyone.
“I warmly welcome Police Scotland’s targeted action in Edinburgh Northwestern this week and thank local officers for their hard work.”
Environmental campaigners have staged a “fossil fuels are scary” Halloween themed demonstration at the First Minister’s residence in Edinburgh today.
They said there were “no treats for John Swinney” and he was trying to “trick” people by saying his Government was prioritizing action on climate change while approving new fossil fuel projects.
Climate groups gathered outside Bute House in central Edinburgh to protest the Scottish Government decision this week to approve the building of a new gas power station at Peterhead which will burn fossil gas for the next 30 years.
The decision comes shortly after the UK Energy Secretary gave the green light to drilling gas from the Jackdaw field, despite admitting it will not reduce energy bills. The price of oil and gas is set by international energy markets so these decisions will leave UK households will be left at the mercy of fossil fuel companies for decades to come.
Burning of fossil fuels is the key driver of the extreme weather people are facing, such as the recent storms, record heat this summer and devastating events like the deadly floods in Nepal. Protestors said they were “terrified” about the impact of these decisions on the lives.
Friends of the Earth Scotland’s Kate Whitaker commented:“Fossil fuels are scary because of the harm they are already causing to millions of people. When politicians make disastrous decisions to approve new oil or gas, people get even more terrified about our collective future.
“We are at the First Minister’s residence but he is not getting any treats this year. His Government has chosen to put more people in more danger from extreme weather and is tricking people by trying to claim that new gas burning is somehow compatible with a safe energy future.”
“Giving the go ahead for a new fossil fuelled power plant at Peterhead is a catastrophic failure from the Scottish Government to protect people from both climate breakdown and the increasing burden of household energy bills.
“Politicians could instead help allay our fears by focusing on climate solutions that improve lives such as warmer homes, reliable bus services and creating green jobs.”
Halloween hunt for hidden ‘energy vampires’ could help families cut winter bills
THIS Halloween, ScottishPower is urging households across the UK to hunt down energy-draining ‘vampire devices’ lurking in every home, and use the spooky season to build energy saving habits as winter sets in.
‘Vampire devices’ are appliances that keep drawing electricity while they’re plugged in, even when they’re switched off or on standby. From TVs and games consoles to microwaves and phone chargers, they can quietly add to household bills without anyone noticing.
By switching off standby appliances and making a handful of simple changes around the home, households could save up to £313 a year, according to Energy Saving Trust.
Following the Ofgem price cap rising in October and with more cold weather on the way, ScottishPower is warning many families could be paying more than they need to simply by not switching everyday devices off.
Switching TVs off standby could save households around £45 a year, while avoiding the tumble dryer could save around £50 a year. Keeping showers brief, to four minutes, could save around £45 a year, and replacing older bulbs with LEDs could save up to £40 a year on annual energy bills.
Rozlyn Brennan, ScottishPower Smart Solutions Director, said:“Most homes are packed with ‘vampire devices’ quietly sucking electricity around the clock, even when they’re not being used.
“With household budgets still under pressure and winter approaching, Halloween is the perfect reminder to hunt them down. From TVs left on standby to chargers plugged in unnecessarily, these small habits can add up to a noticeable difference on your energy bill.”
“Taking just a few minutes to switch things off at the wall could help save money, reduce wasted energy and build good habits for the colder months ahead.”
Common household vampire devices include:
TVs and set-top boxes
Games consoles
Sound systems
Microwaves and coffee machines with digital displays
Phone, tablet and laptop chargers left plugged in
All these electrical appliances can be safely switched off at the wall when they’re not in use, which makes this one of the easiest energy-saving habits.
ScottishPower’s advice is as follows:
Switch off at the wall – don’t rely on the remote. A glowing standby light can be a sign the device is still draining power.
Use a switched extension lead – plug the TV, console and speakers into one lead so you can turn the whole set-up off at once.
Unplug chargers – once phones, tablets and laptops are charged, switch them off at the wall
Know what to leave on – keep fridges, freezers, boilers, smart meters and broadband routers running, and check manufacturer guidance for devices such as set-top boxes that need to stay on to update.
ScottishPower is also encouraging customers to make greater use of smart technology to better understand how and when they use electricity, helping them identify further opportunities to reduce waste and save money.
ScottishPower has its ongoing Power Saver1 initiative rewarding eligible customers for shifting their electricity use away from specified periods, letting them choose 8 one-hour slots of cheaper electricity2 at selected times throughout the whole week.
And for electric vehicle drivers, ScottishPower’s EV Optimise3 can make charging smarter by automatically scheduling charging around the customer’s needs and available charging periods.
For more energy saving tips from ScottishPower, check out the energy efficiency page here and follow @scottishpowercustomers on Instagram.
Organisations offering support to veterans and their families are being urged to apply for grants of up to £10,000 to help those facing disadvantage as a result of their service to the country.
The Scottish Veterans Fund small grants scheme is open for applications and offers support to projects working with the veterans’ community.
This includes supporting veterans and their families to achieve a successful transition to civilian life and projects that aim to make Scotland the most attractive place to be after leaving the services.
While meeting volunteer poppy sellers in Edinburgh to mark the city’s Poppy Day, Veterans Minister Jamie Hepburn encouraged organisations working with veterans to apply to the scheme by the deadline of November 20th.
Mr Hepburn said: “Last year we launched our small grants scheme as part of the Scottish Veterans fund, to create more opportunities for smaller organisations to receive funding and it was hugely popular.
“This £100,000 fund offers grants of up to £10,000 for one year, and will prioritise projects that align with recommendations made by the Scottish Veterans Commissioner.
“Edinburgh’s Poppy Day is a good time to remind people to apply for this more agile funding pot. The Scottish Government is grateful for the tremendous work undertaken by the staff and volunteers of Poppyscotland.
“The Scottish Poppy Appeal provides a vital opportunity to show our thanks to those who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.”
Scottish Veterans Commissioner Susie Hamilton said: “I am pleased that the Scottish Veterans Fund is open for applications. It is available for one-year projects that support veterans and their families in Scotland or strengthen connections between serving families and the veterans community.
“I would encourage eligible organisations to consider whether the fund could help bring a worthwhile project to life, as effective support can make a profound difference.”
Council Leaders yesterday called for the Scottish Government to work with councils on future reforms to local services.
COSLA agreed a vision for public service reform to challenge the assumption that structures alone are the answer, arguing instead for evidence-led reform focused on improving outcomes for people, communities and places.
Scotland’s public services face significant challenges. Demand is increasing, finances are under pressure, inequalities persist, and communities rightly expect services that are responsive, sustainable and accountable.
COSLA is clear that change in our public services is needed. But reform must also be done at a pace that allows meaningful and considered engagement.
COSLA President, Cllr Shona Morrison, said: “The Scottish Government’s proposals and approach to engagement need a rethink. Council Leaders were clear today – we are calling for reform to be done in a way that allows meaningful, broad and considered engagement and for this to be done with COSLA.
“Scotland’s public services need reform, but successful reform must start by asking what outcomes people want for their communities, not by assuming that any particular organisational model is the answer. We also cannot lose sight of the fact local government has borne the brunt of funding cuts over recent years.
“Some services may be better planned delivered at a different scale and other parts of the public sector must come into this. Everything should be on the table – not just local government. What matters is whether change improves outcomes, strengthens accountability and delivers the most impact for public money.”
The Local Government vision agreed today is built around the principle of “local by default, regional where it adds value, and national where necessary.” Decisions should be taken as close as possible to the people affected, whilst recognising that some functions can be delivered more effectively through regional or national arrangements where there is a clear evidence base for doing so.
The vision calls for reform that:
Improves outcomes rather than simply redesigning institutions.
Strengthens local democracy and truly enables community empowerment.
Supports collaboration where it delivers clear benefits.
Aligns funding, powers and accountability (including a reform of local taxation).
Applies across the whole public sector, including national agencies and public bodies.
Creates the conditions for prevention, innovation and long-term sustainability.
Long-term financial sustainability, workforce capacity, community empowerment and clearer accountability are all required for successful reform. Structural change is just one consideration.
We have shared this vision today with the First Minister, and at a time when there are discussions around further devolution of powers, we are also pressing for greater devolution of powers from national to a local level so that more decisions can be made with the communities they may affect.
Next week, the vision will be discussed with the First Minister, Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Public Service Reform, seeking agreement on the principles that should guide the next phase of reform.
Many of the immediate pressures facing services stem from funding constraints, rising demand and workforce shortages rather than organisational structures. It is for that reason that we cannot separate this from the upcoming Scottish budget and urge Scottish Government to deliver a fair settlement for Local Government.
COSLA’s Vice President, Steven Heddle, said: “Next week’s discussions are an opportunity to build consensus on a shared way forward.
“We need reform that empowers communities, trusts and supports local democracy and focuses primarily on improving outcomes. At the same time, we must address the real pressures facing services today through a sustainable funding settlement and support for the workforce.
“Structures matter, but they are not the end in themselves. The test of any reform must be simple: will it improve people’s lives?”
Following a successful approach last year, when events passed without serious incident, the Council is stepping up preparations to help ensure this year’s fireworks season is safe and enjoyable.
The Council is encouraging everyone to plan ahead, follow firework safety advice and attend an organised fireworks display wherever possible. Organised events provide an opportunity to enjoy the excitement of Bonfire Night while reducing the risks associated with fireworks being set off in streets and residential areas.
Firework Control Zones will be in place across 14 areas of the city from 30 October to 8 November, prohibiting the use of fireworks within designated zones, including on private property.
These zones are designed to address concerns about the dangerous misuse of fireworks and to protect vulnerable people, animals, and the environment.
These measures will be supported by Police Scotland’s Dispersal Zones and other enforcement activity, forming part of a coordinated approach to preventing disorder and protecting the public.
Working with schools, Police Scotland and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, the Council has been supporting education throughout the year to help young people understand the risks associated with fireworks and make safer choices. Funding for youth programmes and alternative activities will also provide positive opportunities for young people to spend time together.
Council teams and community volunteers are also taking practical steps to reduce risks in neighbourhoods. This includes clearing hazardous materials, tackling fly-tipping, checking known hotspots and coordinating CCTV to help prevent items being used to start dangerous fires.
Residents are also being asked to consider neighbours who may be particularly vulnerable to loud noise and to report dangerous or anti-social behaviour to Police Scotland.
Council Leader Jane Meagher said: “Bonfire Night should be a chance for families and communities to come together and enjoy a much-loved tradition. Residents should be able to feel safe in their neighbourhoods, knowing that everything possible is being done to reduce the risks associated with fireworks season.
L”ast year showed what can be achieved when the Council, Police Scotland, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and our community partners work together. We saw a real difference, with events passing without serious incident, and we want to build on that progress this year.
“We know that most people want to celebrate responsibly. However, the dangerous actions of a minority can put lives at risk, disrupt local services and cause real distress to residents. We will not allow that behaviour to spoil Bonfire Night for our communities.
“Preparations are well underway, from Firework Control Zones and targeted enforcement to education, youth activities and practical work to tackle hazards in our neighbourhoods. We are doing everything we can to help keep Edinburgh safe, and we’re asking residents to play their part too.
“We all have a role to play in keeping our communities safe. Please think about the impact your actions can have on others, follow the safety advice, and report dangerous behaviour when you see it.
“By working together, we can build on last year’s progress and help make Bonfire Night a positive occasion for the whole city.
Chief Superintendent Helen Harrision, Divisional Commander for Edinburgh, said:As we approach the 5 November, we are working closely with partners to ensure Edinburgh’s communities remain safe.“
“Our priority is to make sure that residents can enjoy the Halloween and Bonfire Night period, whilst robustly tackling the minority of those who choose to engage in dangerous, disruptive, or antisocial behaviour.
“In collaboration with stakeholders, we have delivered and supported a range of engagement events, diversionary activities, and awareness-raising sessions with a view to preventing criminal activity during Bonfire Night. However, we know from previous years that a small number of individuals will view this period as an opportunity to cause disorder.
“Attacks on emergency services are completely unacceptable. Our officers along with fire and ambulance crews work tirelessly to keep the city’s communities safe. Any violence, hostility, or reckless behaviour will not be tolerated, and those responsible will be held to account.
“Our own local policing teams will be supported by specialist resource as part of Operations Moonbeam and Amberlight and will be ready to respond as required.”
Residents can visit the Council website for further information about Firework Control Zones, safety advice and organised fireworks displays.
First Minister welcomes recognition that ‘Westminster is not working for Scotland’ BUT second independence referendum is ‘off the table’
First Minister John Swinney has pledged to work “constructively and collaboratively” with the UK Prime Minister to devolve further powers to Scotland “for the benefit of the people we serve.”
While the UK Government disagrees with the Scottish Government that the best future for Scotland is as an independent European nation, the First Minister said both do agree that Westminster is not working for people in Scotland, and the best decisions are taken by those who live here.
Mr Swinney also welcomed the commitment made by Mr Burnham to respect the constitutional role of the Scottish Parliament.
First Minister John Swinney said: “While the Prime Minister and I disagree on independence, we do agree that Westminster does not work for people in Scotland. And when the people of Scotland take issues into their own hands, the best outcomes will come about.
“To that end, I will work constructively and collaboratively with him to devolve more powers from Westminster to Scotland – as long as those proposals drive economic growth that is felt in higher wages, better jobs, more opportunities for business to start and expand, and support with the cost of living.
“Today’s meeting of the National Economic Council was a welcome start of work to develop the UK Government’s new principle of ‘devolving by default’ and the Prime Minister has been clear that he will not bypass the Scottish Parliament in this endeavour.
“I welcome that commitment, and look forward to our Governments jointly developing a plan to consider further devolution to Scotland that will boost economic growth.”
THE UK GOVERNMENT’s ACCOUNT OF THE MEETING:
The Prime Minister met with the First Minister of Scotland in Glasgow following a meeting of the National Economic Council today (Friday 30 October).
The Prime Minister and First Minister agreed the meeting at the NEC had been extremely positive. They said it had been a valuable exercise in starting the process of exploring how each government could contribute to regional empowerment, reindustrialisation and achieving good growth in every postcode.
They agreed that now there would be a policy sprint led by No10 North, involving officials from both governments, to take this agenda forward.
Outside that process, the Prime Minister said the UK Government would review and respond to a range of issues raised by the First Minister.
This would not include a second independence referendum in Scotland, which the Prime Minister has repeatedly made clear, is off the table.
Scottish Liberal Democrat leader and MSP for Edinburgh North Western Alex Cole-Hamilton has lodged a parliamentary motion congratulating Edinburgh Zoo on the birth of three capybara pups.
The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland’s (RZSS) Edinburgh Zoo confirmed that zookeepers discovered the pups on 28 October, after they were born overnight to parents Luna and Rodney. The new arrivals are younger siblings to Bru, who was born in May and became the first capybara born in Scotland in 18 years.
The Edinburgh North Western MSP has lodged a motion in the Scottish Parliament recognising the births and paying tribute to the hard work of the zoo’s staff and zookeepers.
Commenting on the news, Alex Cole-Hamilton said:“I am absolutely delighted to see the number of capybara pups in Scotland increasing.
“Since Bru became an internet sensation earlier this year, he and his proud parents, Rodney and Luna, have captured the hearts of people across Scotland and beyond.
“These latest arrivals are a fantastic addition to Edinburgh Zoo and a real testament to the dedication and expertise of its hardworking staff.
“I’m very proud to have Edinburgh zoo in my constituency and would encourage everyone to visit the zoo, meet the growing capybara family and support this much-loved Edinburgh institution.”
The latest National Museums Scotland listings with highlights including upcoming exhibitions, Roman Scotland: Life on the Edge of Empire at the National Museum of Scotland and Art of Commemoration at the National War Museum.
EXHIBITIONS & DISPLAYS
National Museum of Scotland Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF Open 10:00–17:00 daily
OPENING SOON Roman Scotland: Life on the Edge of Empire Exhibition Gallery 1, Level 3 Saturday 14 November 2026 – Sunday 18 April 2027 Tickets from £13.50, concessions available.
Roman Scotland: Life on the Edge of Empire will reshape our understanding of Scotland’s relationship with the Roman world. This exhibition will bring the military communities of Rome’s most northern frontier to life through new research, significant loans from across Europe, and previously unseen archaeological discoveries.
Visitors will encounter objects and stories that bring a vibrant and diverse frontier community to life. This will include finds from a 2nd century AD Roman fort at Inveresk, East Lothian. Central to the exhibition will be two spectacular altars from the fort’s Mithraeum (a temple to the god Mithras).
Find out more, nms.ac.uk/exhibitions/Roman-Scotland-Life-on-the-Edge-of-Empire
Scotland’s First Warriors Exhibition Gallery 2, Level 3 Until Sunday 16 May 2027 Entrance into the museum and exhibition is free
Explore archaeological evidence for the origins of organised conflict, from the Neolithic (late Stone Age) to the Romans, through over 250 objects. Scotland’s First Warriors explores how and why people fought, the impact of war, and the legacy of prehistoric conflict. Internationally significant discoveries from Scotland will be on display for the first time, including the Carnoustie Hoard.
Scotland’s First Warriors is supported by Postcode Lottery players
Find out more, nms.ac.uk/exhibitions/scotlands-first-warriors
National War Museum Edinburgh Castle, Castlehill, Edinburgh, EH1 2NG Open daily, 09:45 – 16:45
OPENING SOON The Art of Commemoration Saturday 5 December 2026 – Sunday 14 January 2029 Entrance into the museum and exhibition is free, tickets to the castle need to be purchased
The Art of Commemoration explores the story behind the Scottish National War Memorial, one of the most important 20th century buildings in Scotland. The exhibition brings together original architectural drawings, artworks, objects, and archival material.
Learn more about the first proposals to build a National Memorial in 1917, through to its opening a decade later. Find out about the women artists involved in the Memorial’s creation, and how they provided a nuanced perspective on the experience of war. Explore the impact the Memorial had on Scottish identity, and hear from those who work within the Memorial and continue to be inspired by it.
Find out more, nms.ac.uk/exhibitions/the-art-of-commemoration
EVENTS
National Museum of Scotland Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF Open 10:00–17:00 daily
Museum Socials Learning Centre Seminar Room, Level 4 Third Friday of the month 10:30–12:00 Free, ticketed
Museum Socials events are designed for people living with dementia, their relatives, friends, carers, and supporters. Relaxed and informal, each session explores a different museum theme through various interactive activities, including curator talks, object handling, and creative crafts. Tea, cake and a warm welcome are always provided.
Find out more, nms.ac.uk/events/museum-socials
The Sunday Sketch Meet at the Entrance Hall Information Desk on Level 0 Sunday 25 October 14:00 – 16:00 £15 (Members and Concessions £13) Ages 16+
Join artist Sheena Russell to take a new look at our collections and be guided through a range of drawing activities within the museum’s galleries. All abilities are welcome at this relaxed and informal session. Each month we will explore a different theme, and all materials are supplied.
Find out more, nms.ac.uk/events/the-sunday-sketch
Music at the Museum Hawthornden Court, Level 1 Tuesday 3, 10 & 17 November 11:30 – 12:15 and 13:30 – 14:15 Free, drop-in
In collaboration with Live Music Now Scotland, we are bringing live music into the heart of the museum on Tuesdays. With experienced performers and rising stars of live music, each week features a different soloist, duo or ensemble.
Find out more, nms.ac.uk/events/music-at-the-museum
Find out Fridays Grand Gallery and Learning Centre, Level 4 Until 26 February 2027 Friday afternoons during term time,13:30 – 16:00 Free, drop-in
Explore a different theme each week on Friday afternoons with our Learning team. Find out fascinating facts and hear surprising stories about our collections and get hands on with some of our favourite objects.
Find out more, nms.ac.uk/events/find-out-fridays
Curiosity Club Learning Centre, Level 4 Sat 31 Oct 2026 – Sat 27 Mar 2027 10:30 – 12:00 £10 (Members £9) Ages 7-11
Inspired by some of the museum’s most exciting collections, Curiosity Clubs are a chance for kids to explore the museum without their adult helpers through games, activities and gallery visits.
Find out more, nms.ac.uk/events/curiosity-club
Relaxed Curiosity Club Learning Centre, Level 4 Sat 31 Oct 2026 – Sat 27 Mar 2027 14:30 – 15:30 £10 (Members and Concessions £9) Ages 7-11
These relaxed sessions are designed for children with additional support needs and their families.
Get inspired through games, activities and an optional gallery visit. Explore some of the fascinating facts and stories behind our collection. We aim to create a fun, friendly, and relaxed environment for ASN children to explore our Curiosity Club activities with the reassurance of their parents/carers being with them or nearby.
Find out more, nms.ac.uk/events/relaxed-curiosity-club
Relaxed Morning: National Museum of Scotland Sun 1 Nov & 6 Dec 10:00 – 12:00 (Quiet space open until 12:30) Free, drop-in
A monthly Relaxed Morning for anyone who would appreciate a calmer visit to the museum.
This session is primarily for, but not limited to families with neurodiverse children, neurodiverse young people and adults
adults living with dementia, adults and children with mental health problems and any other visitors with sensory needs or who may prefer a more relaxed experience, plus their families, friends and carers.
Sensory Sunday Learning Centre, Level 4 Sun 1 Nov – Sun 7 Mar 11:00 – 12:00 and 14:00 – 15:00 Free, ticketed Ages 5-10
Children with additional support needs and disabilities and their families are invited to join our programme of sensory play sessions.
Explore the museum’s collections, get creative and meet other families. Sensory Sunday sessions are relaxed, fun, hands-on, and respond to the needs of the families participating. You are welcome to come and go at any point during a session.
Find out more, nms.ac.uk/events/sensory-sunday
Magic Carpet Learning Centre Event Space, Level 2 Mon 9, 16 & 23 Nov 10:30 – 11:15 and 11:45 – 12:30 £5 (Members £4) Ages 0-4
Our Magic Carpet sessions introduce you and your little one to some of the fascinating objects and themes in the museum in a fun and interactive way.
Each month we will explore a different theme using song, rhyme, movement, play and handling objects. This will help you and your little one discover more about our topic.
Find out more, nms.ac.uk/events/magic-carpet
Museum Late: When in Rome Fri 20 Nov, 19:30 – 22:30 £26 (Members and Concessions £24) Ages 18+
A night of Roman-inspired revelry in the spectacular setting of the National Museum of Scotland after hours, inspired by the major new exhibition Roman Scotland: Life on the Edge of Empire.
When in Rome, do as the ancient Romans do! Get ready for a night like no other with music, bars and Roman-themed performances and activities throughout our galleries.
Meet the Makers: Prehistoric and Roman Scotland Grand Gallery Sat 21 and Sun 22 Nov 10:00 – 16:00 Free, drop in All ages
Free, drop-in demonstrations and displays showcasing craftsmanship of the past.
Contemporary makers will represent craft skills from Bronze Age Scotland to the Roman military occupation. Discover how pottery, jewellery, textiles, leather, tools, and wooden objects were made in the past. Inspired by our major new exhibition Roman Scotland: Life on the Edge of Empire.
Find out more, nms.ac.uk/events/meet-the-makers-prehistoric-and-roman-scotland
Creative Workshop: Roman Pottery Learning Centre Studios Sat 21 and Sun 22 Nov 10:30 – 13:00 and 14:00 – 16:30 £50 (Members and Concessions £45) Ages 16+
Master potter and ancient pottery specialist Graham Taylor leads a workshop on the skills and techniques of ancient Roman Pottery making and decorating, inspired by objects on display in the major new exhibition Roman Scotland: Life on the Edge of Empire. Working with a pot fresh from Graham’s wheel, participants will create their own replica pot that will be taken back to the Potted History workshop, fired, and returned to them.
Find out more, nms.ac.uk/events/creative-workshop-roman-pottery
In Conversation: Tìr nam Beann, Scotland’s Gaelic Mountain Culture Auditorium Wed 25 Nov 18:30 – 20:00 Free, ticketed Ages 14+
An evening panel conversation exploring the relationship between Gaelic culture and Scotland’s hills. Join us after hours at the museum for a panel discussion. Explore the relationship between Gaelic culture and Scotland’s hills in the 21st century.
Còmhradh panail feasgair a’ rannsachadh a’ cheangail eadar cultar na Gàidhlig agus beanntan na h-Alba. Thigibh còmhla rinn às dèidh àm dùnaidh aig an taigh-tasgaidh airson deasbad panail a rannsaicheas an ceangal eadar cultar na Gàidhlig agus beanntan na h-Alba san 21mh linn.
Find out more, nms.ac.uk/events/in-conversation-tìr-nam-beann-scotlands-gaelic-mountain-culture
Drawn Together Grand Gallery Mon 28 – Thu 31 Dec 10:00 – 16:00 Free, drop-in
Join us this festive period and be inspired to sketch some of the fascinating objects in our collection.
Pick up a pencil and paper from our table in the Grand Gallery and head off to explore the museum or sketch together at our tables. When you’ve finished, why not add it to our mini-gallery and let others admire your work? Come along with the whole family or enjoy some mindful time by yourself or with friends.
Find out more, nms.ac.uk/events/drawn-together
National Museum of Flight East Fortune Airfield, East Lothian, EH39 5LF Open Weekends only, 10:00–16:00
Relaxed Morning: National Museum of Flight Every second Sunday of the month 10:00-12:00 Free with museum admission
Relaxed Morning at the National Museum of Flight is for anyone who would appreciate a calmer visit to the museum. Friendly staff will be there to give you a warm welcome and support your visit, as you explore the museum without noisy interactives and videos to create a more relaxed environment.
Find out more, nms.ac.uk/events/relaxed-morning-national-museum-of-flight
National Museum of Rural Life Philipshill Road, East Kilbride, G76 9HR Open 10:00–17:00 daily
Relaxed Afternoon: National Museum of Rural Life Last Tuesday of every month 14:30-17:00 Free with museum admission and Annual Pass
Relaxed Afternoon is for anyone who would appreciate a calmer visit to the museum. This session is primarily for, but not limited to, families with neurodivergent children; neurodivergent young people and adults; adults living with dementia; adults and children with mental health problems; and any other visitors with sensory needs or who may prefer a more relaxed experience, plus their families, friends and carers.
Find out more, nms.ac.uk/events/relaxed-afternoon-national-museum-of-rural-life
Adult Workshop: Festive Willow Weaving Learning Centre Sat 28 Nov 10:30 – 13:00 and 14:00 – 16:30 £40 (Members and Concessions £35) Ages 18+
Choose from four half-day festive willow workshops for adults at the National Museum of Rural Life.
Led by willow artist and forager Max Johnson, choose from one or more workshops to make a willow wreath, star, or reindeer and tree to take home. All workshops are suitable for beginners and all materials and equipment will be provided.
Find out more, nms.ac.uk/events/adult-workshop-festive-willow
Family Workshop: Festive Felt Learning Centre Sat 5 and Sun 6 Dec 10:30 – 12:30 and 13:30 – 15:30 Tickets from £15 (Members £12) Ages 7+
Create your own festive felt tree decoration in this family craft workshop at the National Museum of Rural Life. Led by felt maker and artist Natalia Kerr, families can work together to make either a felted Highland cow or pig in a blanket tree decoration to take home.
