Giant Journeys is revolutionising primary education through immersive, curriculum-aligned workshops that blend hands-on learning with cutting-edge technologies such as Augmented Reality, Virtual Reality, and Artificial Intelligence. Their innovative approach transforms traditional classrooms into dynamic, interactive learning environments where students can explore topics in science, history, and beyond in unforgettable ways.

Embracing Innovation: At Giant Journeys, children can unearth dinosaur fossils and identify them using Augmented Reality, experience tours of outer space or inside the human body using Virtual Reality, use tech to solve Forensic Science style “crime scenes” or interview AI powered characters like Roman Centurions, Egyptian Slaves or WW2 soldiers. The interactive sessions are designed to educate and inspire children and are a really unique way to bring science, history and lots more to life in Primary Schools.

Growth and Development: Founded in 2023 by Darren Smith, an experienced education entrepreneur who previously built and exited a large-scale workshop provider operating across the UK and Australia, Giant Journeys quickly gained traction. In its first year alone, the company partnered with over 80 primary schools across Northamptonshire and neighboring counties, reaching more than 12,000 children.

What began as a solo venture has rapidly evolved into a thriving team of specialist facilitators and tech developers. The company’s offerings have expanded significantly, now including large-scale animatronics such as “Reggie,” a five-metre-long T-Rex, and AI-driven CGI characters that bring history to life in the classroom.

Why West Northants is the perfect location: Operating from Vulcan Works in Northampton’s Cultural Quarter, Giant Journeys benefits from a central location ideal for reaching schools across the UK. They feel that the supportive local ecosystem including West Northamptonshire Council and the creative community at Vulcan Works, has played a crucial role in their rapid growth, offering mentorship, grant funding, and collaborative workspaces.

Giant Journeys have also benefitted from access to a rich talent pool using local skilled educators, digital creatives and VR/AR developers to fuel growth and innovation.

Future Growth Plans: Driven by strong regional demand, Giant Journeys is now scaling beyond West Northants into the wider Midlands and international markets. The recent acquisition of an Irish education business marks the beginning of their overseas expansion, with a full UK-wide rollout planned over the next 12 to 18 months.

In addition to geographic growth, the company is developing new topic-based workshops and seeking funding for a VR-based anti-knife crime educational film aimed at secondary schools in West Northants.