At Darwin we believe a commitment to scientific excellence is not just something we teach, it's something we live.
It is because of this belief that we take our environmental and social responsibility so seriously and are always looking for ways to develop and promote greener working practices.
It means that all of our specimens are British, ethically sourced and preserved in-house; we only select suppliers with a proven commitment to animal welfare.
It means that we refuse to pollute our planet unnecessarily, that we only use packaging that is reused, recyclable, and/or compostable.
It means that our team is committed to scientific education that is engaging, responsible and lots of fun, so that the next generation can be inspired to carry the baton forward. We support like-minded British institutions, such as the Linnean Society, and are proud to be a Living Wage Employer.
Our values can be summarised into the following core beliefs:
Fun
We believe science should spark joy. Everything we offer is designed to be engaging, hands-on, and genuinely enjoyable. Relevance is key, but so is excitement. We want students to feel the thrill of discovery and the satisfaction of understanding.
Integrity
Integrity runs through every part of our business. From ethical sourcing and transparent supply chains to honest communication with customers and fair treatment of staff, we hold ourselves to high standards. Trust is earned, and we work hard to deserve it.
Respect
We treat everyone - staff, customers, partners - with respect and kindness. We listen, we value diverse perspectives, and we foster a culture where people feel safe, supported, and appreciated. Respect is the foundation of strong relationships and a healthy workplace.
Communication
We’re committed to clear, honest, and open communication. Whether it’s explaining a product, resolving a query, or advising delivery dates, we aim to be transparent and approachable. Good communication builds understanding - and understanding builds trust.
Family
We support flexible, family-focused working practices because we know life doesn’t stop at the lab bench. Our team is encouraged to balance work with personal commitments, and we extend that same empathy to our customers. We’re a business with heart and are proud to be a Living Wage accredited employer.
Education
We’re passionate about learning. Internally, we invest in continuous professional development (CPD) to help our team grow. Externally, we share knowledge through our website, newsletter, and resources—making science accessible to learners of all ages and backgrounds.