We’re proud to have funded a new community space starting in Chippenham this month. Moonrakers’ Educafe opens on Monday 27th April 2026 at the Wiltshire and Swindon History Centre providing a welcoming place for people of all ages and backgrounds to meet, create, and connect.
We believe everyone deserves a place where they feel they belong. Moonrakers’ Educafe offers exactly that – a café-style space where residents can build confidence, share skills, learn something new or simply enjoy a conversation over a cup of tea.
Our CEO reflects on why we got involved:
“This project creates opportunities for people to come together, share their experiences and build a stronger, more connected community. By investing in spaces like this, we are not only supporting individuals today but helping to foster a sense of belonging that will benefit our community for years to come.”
Wiltshire has a rich tradition of storytelling, and Moonrakers’ Educafe puts that at its heart. The Migration Stories oral history project and Creators’ Corner give people the chance to share their own experiences and discover the stories of others both preserving local heritage while helping to shape it for future generations.
The Educafe is designed to be genuinely inclusive. It welcomes EVERYONE:
- Local residents, volunteers and community members
- Families, parents, grandparents, nannies and carers
- Young people, including those who are care experienced or neurodivergent.
- People new to the area, including migrants, refugees and those with English as an additional language.
- People living with disabilities, long-term conditions, or other health related needs.
- Children can attend with a supervising adult.
Mel Jacob, Deputy Leader of Wiltshire Council, describes it as
“a wonderful opportunity for residents to come together, share stories, and reconnect with the heritage that shapes our community.”
This is the result of real collaboration between the team at the Wiltshire and Swindon History Centre and volunteers with support from Educafe Newbury. We’re pleased to have played our part in bringing it to life.
Moonrakers’ Educafe runs fortnightly from 10.30am to 2pm. Drop in when it suits you to enjoy:
- Creators Corner and skills swap-shop: making : fixing: crafting: repairing – bring your own project with the opportunity to share your skills.
- Games Corner – for adults to join in with companionable board or card games.
- Reading Corner – bring your own book or try out WSHC’s “lucky dip” selection from the History Centre’s very own local studies library.
- Moonrakers’ Café – take refreshment in a café setting serving hot drinks, cake and biscuits, giving even more opportunities to chat and make new friends. You are welcome to bring lunch with you if you would like to do so.
Supporting projects like this sits at the heart of what we do. We fund initiatives that bring people together, encourage creativity, and build a more connected Chippenham.
We hope to see you there.
Find out more about Moonraker’s Educafe on the Wiltshire and Swindon History Centre’s website here: https://wshc.org.uk/exhibitions-and-projects/moonrakers-educafe-at-wshc/
