Centre for Computing History

Who we are

The Centre for Computing History (CCH) is a national not-for-profit educational charity and museum. We collect, preserve and interpret artefacts - where possible, still working - and memories of computing history, particularly as it relates to the UK and to the unique local context of Cambridge. 

Our core purpose is to use our collections, displays, learning programmes and events to explore the social, cultural and historical impact – the lived experience - of developments in computing. Future generations will wonder how this massively important and transformative cultural development happened within just 80 years.  Through our hands-on and inclusive experiences, visitors of all kinds learn how these powerful devices became an inextricable part of all our lives and changed our world.  

We carefully preserve our rare computers and paraphernalia, but wherever possible, working artefacts are added to our Handling Collection, to be used and investigated by our visitors, maintained by our amazing team of volunteers. Discrete displays in our main gallery bring the past alive, showing how the developments of yesterday made the technology of today. Organised into themes such as The Dawn of Computing (1950s and 60s), Military Machines, Connected World, Gaming, Business Machines (including our unique virtual LEO I), Home Computing, 80s Microcomputers, Calculators and much more, the artifacts and displays evidence a remarkable story told by the Centre’s staff and volunteers through interactive talks, tours and demonstrations. 

Our culture and values

The Centre for Computing History's key values are that we are relevant, questioning, fun and sustainable. 

Relevant: 

To keep our collections and programmes relevant to all, and to create an unforgettable visitor experience, we recognise that openness is key. We work in partnership with our many and varied audiences, so that everyone can see themselves reflected in what we display, collect and programme and everyone can experience the technologies we celebrate, while acknowledging their impact - because computing history isn’t over, it’s happening now. 

We create layered interpretation appropriate to the needs and learning styles of a wide range of people. 

Questioning: 

We encourage questions! We debate and reflect on ourselves and our work, and we encourage our visitors and partners to do the same for themselves and with us. 

We do not shy away from uncomfortable or challenging stories and recognise that there are always multiple narratives and various points of view. 

Fun:

We believe that people learn best when enjoying themselves by experiencing the technologies of the past and having fun. 

Sustainable: 

We are committed to minimising our impact on the environment while showcasing not just the technologies of the past but also their impact on our world.   

We play our part in conserving natural resources, working to reduce our carbon footprint and waste, protecting the world around us, and preventing pollution wherever we can.  

We are committed to continually improving our own environmental performance.  

Equality, diversity and inclusion policy

The Centre for Computing History is committed to encouraging equality, diversity and inclusion among our workforce, and eliminating unlawful discrimination. The aim is for our workforce to be truly representative of all sections of society and our customers, and for each employee to feel respected and able to give their best. The organisation - in providing goods and/or services and/or facilities - is also committed against unlawful discrimination of customers or the public. 

We aim to provide equality, fairness and respect for all in our employment, whether temporary, parttime or full-time. We do not unlawfully discriminate because of the Equality Act 2010 protected characteristics. We oppose and avoid all forms of unlawful discrimination.