Welcome to my online courses page for science researchers and educators.

Inspire awe in students and the public with science experiences they will never forget!

  • $285

Teach Earthquakes with Confidence

For Middle to High School teachers - a framework for teaching about earthquakes in a New Zealand context, including practical demos, hands-on challenges, slide decks and more. Shake up your students with earthquake learning they will never forget!
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Courses

  • $295

Inspire School Students with Science

  • Course

For scientists who are uncertain how to best work with children, this step by step approach will show you how to easily create inspiring and unforgettable school engagements. Transform the way you work with school children. Do more than tell them - INSPIRE THEM! Endorsed by the Geological Society of London and the Geoscience Society of New Zealand.
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Communication - the Career Boosting Skill Most Scientists Ignore

  • Course

Most students or scientists avoid creating a sci communication practice because of a lack of confidence, unclear purpose or false idea of the time required But built around only your interests and skills, and using one single platform, you can steadily find your voice and become a confident authority in a niche area. With minimal input over time you'll stand out amongst your peers and widen your opportunities.
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  • Free

6 Ways to Fail with Your Science Communication

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If you have been wanting to be more active as a science communicator but have found yourself stalling and getting confused about what you are trying to do, then this article is for you. By identifying the 6 common reasons people fail at science communication you are in a position to fix what is holding you back and finally get into the flow you are looking for.
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  • $25

The Science Communication Workbook

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  • 1 file

This is a hands-on guide for educators and researchers. It sets out a clear step by step pathway to create your own personalised action plan for launching your science communication activities. You will discover how to: 1. Clarify your purpose, aim and strategy 2. Connect with your audience 3. Create and communicate your content 4. Increase your impact 5. Set up your personal action plan and start using your voice!
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Just a few testimonials about my work:

A B, Te Ra School

Thank you Julian, that was incredibly inspiring. You are clearly a born teacher with a tremendous passion, and how wonderful it was for the children to experience that.

Teacher feedback following a school visit

Julian Thomson. Brilliant.

Brenten Higson, Saint Bernard’s College

Having access to Julian Thomson is a god send.

Anna Drinkrow, Principal, Putorino School

Julian’s dedication to engaging and educating our children was truly remarkable. His creativity shone through in the fantastic activities, videos, and trips he organized, making learning both fun and insightful. The visit to Napier to explore the 1931 earthquake and Lake Tutira’s formation was fantastic and everyone, even adults learnt something new that day. Thanks to Julian’s expertise and passion for teaching which has created a memorable and enriching experience for our kids. Thanks heaps Julian

Haritina Mogosanu, executive director NZAN and senior space science communicator at Star Safari

I have known Julian for a long time, he inspires generations of students across the country and internationally. It was about time he created a course for scientists who wish to communicate their passion effectively. This course is filling an essential gap. It is an insightful course for those who want to inspire youngsters about science and it is so much more. Julian not only cares about people who love their jobs but he’s right there supporting them to share their passion so that they can make a difference.

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James Crampton, Professor of Paleontology, Victoria University of Wellington.

Although I’ve been involved in a great deal of outreach over the past 30 years – from museum exhibits, to childrens’ TV, to classroom visits and public lectures – I have never had the benefit of such clear, simple, and effective advice about how to “do” outreach. I would strongly recommend these videos to any scientist who is venturing into the classroom or school fieldtrip environments; I wish they had been available to me decades ago.

Julie Jones, Deputy Principal, Southend School

Julian is helping our school shape its Science Curriculum. Julian has a very engaging way of working with both adults and children. He brings science alive through stories and is passionate about sharing his knowledge. At the same time Julian is providing practical, fun ideas for both in the classroom and out on field trips.

Jenny Stein, Geologist and science communicator

Julian provides the knowledge and tools necessary to actively engage teachers and students, with easy to follow presentations and exercises.

Teacher, Otari School

Julian's sessions were highly engaging and informative and our kids and teachers thoroughly enjoyed them. An expert in his field, Julian had a wealth of knowledge to share and he delivered his sessions with a mix of interesting discussion, and practical activities to support student understanding. Our kids came away with a great learning experience and are really excited about geoscience!