In 2002, HM Inspectorate of Education (HMIE) carried out a review of the contribution of the Scottish science centres to formal and informal science education as part of a broader review of all science centres in the United Kingdom. This report identifies many strengths in individual centres and across the network. It is clear that the centres have improved in line with HMIE's previous recommendations. They have better accommodation and resources, and the staff have become increasingly skilled at communicating with, and enthusing, young people and adults about science. Links with school education personnel and staff in initial teacher education have also improved as has outreach work with schools and contributions to teachers' continuing professional development. Cross-centre collaboration is better, including sharing of resources, ideas, and best practice. This report also highlights good practice in each centre and the network more generally. It is important for centres to continue to work cooperatively and with other agencies to provide more high quality professional development for teachers, including newly qualified teachers and those in initial teacher education. This would help teachers keep up to date with subject developments including those associated with "A Curriculum for Excellence," develop their skills in communicating science ideas and concepts, and motivate young people. The centres also have the potential to showcase local research and developments in higher education and industry.