Science Spies: The Secret Message Lab

Description

Can you write a message that nobody else can read? And could you uncover one that’s been hidden?

Join Hickling Hacks for a hands-on science workshop exploring the fascinating world of invisible inks, secret messages and code-breaking!

Children and teenagers will experiment with different ways of creating and revealing hidden messages. From UV light and colour-changing chemicals to writing that disappears with heat and reappears in the cold, there’s plenty to investigate.

They’ll have the chance to create their own secret messages, exchange them with fellow spies and put their detective skills to the test.

One workshop, two levels of challenge!

We know that a six-year-old and a fifteen-year-old don’t necessarily enjoy the same activities. That’s why Science Spies has two different investigation routes running alongside each other.

Participants can choose whichever route suits their interests and confidence on the day. The ages are a guide, not a restriction.

Science Spies | Ages 6+

A playful, hands-on introduction to invisible inks and secret messages.

Participants can:

• Experiment with different invisible inks and ways to reveal them.
• Create and exchange secret messages.
• Explore picture clues and simple codes.
• Discover some of the science behind their investigations.

Perfect for anyone who loves experimenting, creating and discovering things for themselves, without the pressure of solving a complicated puzzle.

Children aged 6–7 may need additional help from a parent or accompanying adult.

Advanced Science Spies | Suggested ages 13+

For those who enjoy puzzles, problem-solving and working things out for themselves.

They’ll explore the same fascinating science, but with a more challenging investigation involving:

• Comparing different chemical and physical methods of hiding information.
• Identifying how to reveal unknown messages.
• Decoding hidden numerical clues using scientific knowledge and a periodic table.
• Combining evidence to solve a final classified challenge.

This is a hands-on investigation, not a science lesson. There’s room to experiment, test ideas, make mistakes and have fun along the way.

The final mission? That’s classified. You’ll have to come along to find out!

Will my teenager enjoy this?

The Advanced Science Spies activities are designed for young people who enjoy scientific experiments, puzzles and logical challenges.

They involve more independent investigation and chemistry-based code-breaking than the standard route.

If your teenager enjoys escape rooms, solving mysteries or working out how things work, this could be right up their street!

But there’s no pressure to choose the advanced challenge. Teenagers who would rather concentrate on experimenting with invisible inks and exchanging secret messages are very welcome to do just that.

Equally, younger participants who are confident problem-solvers are welcome to try the advanced investigation.

Workshop information

• Suitable for: Ages 6+, with two levels of challenge
• Venue: Scouts Hall, Lovers Lane, Newark
• Date: Friday 20 November 2026
• Time: 11am–12pm
• Price: £9 per child

Booking and consent

After booking, parents/carers will be asked to complete a short Google Form covering essential participant information and consent before the workshop.

Your booking is not fully confirmed until this form has been completed.

 

Spaces are limited, so book your young scientist’s place and get ready to become a Science Spy!

Cancellations & changes

If your plans change, please contact me as soon as possible.

Cancellations made more than 24 hours before the event will be refunded. Cancellations made within 24 hours of the event are non-refundable, as materials will already have been purchased and prepared. This does not affect your statutory rights.

Places should not be transferred to another child without contacting me first, as I need accurate attendee information and consent for every participating child. If the event is full, there may also be a waiting list for the place.