Bp accused of buying educational influence through uk science museum partnership

Environmental campaigners are raising serious concerns about BP’s growing influence over science education in the United Kingdom, alleging the oil giant has strategically positioned itself to shape how thousands of teachers approach STEM subjects through its partnership with the prestigious Science Museum.

Freedom of information documents reveal that BP funded research that directly led to the establishment of the Science Museum Group Academy, the institution’s flagship teacher training program. The oil company now sponsors this educational initiative, which has already delivered more than 500 courses to over 5,000 educators across the UK. Critics argue this arrangement allows BP to subtly influence the curriculum and messaging around energy, climate, and environmental topics that reach classrooms nationwide.

The controversy highlights broader concerns about corporate influence in education, particularly when fossil fuel companies fund programs that could shape public understanding of climate science and energy policy. Campaigners describe BP’s approach as “insidious,” suggesting the company is using educational partnerships to improve its public image while potentially downplaying the urgency of transitioning away from fossil fuels.

This latest accusation adds to ongoing scrutiny of BP’s public relations strategies, as environmental groups increasingly challenge the appropriateness of oil company sponsorship of cultural and educational institutions. The Science Museum has yet to respond to these specific allegations, but the debate raises important questions about maintaining independence in science education while accepting corporate funding in an era of climate crisis.