Jim Bell Speaker | Primary & Science

Jim Bell

No less than 97% of the animal species on Earth are invertebrates - why wouldn't you want to find out more about them?

Jim is a Zoologist and Science Communicator, who has shared his enthusiasm for invertebrates with thousands of people across the country, delivering talks to festivals, schools and community groups.

Jim has maintained a collection of invertebrates - both exotic and native - for many years, and he uses these critters to talk about any number of biological subjects. From arachnophobia, through taxonomy and classification, to the origins of life on Earth - it is amazing what you can discover by looking at the little things in life.

With over a decade of experience working as a presenter, Jim has lent his friendly, personable style to a wide variety of events and audiences. Although much of his time is spent in schools, he has done stand-up science comedy, worked the crowds on the Deadly 60's Deadly Days Out Tour, and even talked to remote community groups in the Australian outback.

He has a great affection for spiders, and despite their general unpopularity, he is convinced that he can help anyone think a little bit more fondly towards our eight-legged friends. It's amazing how reassuring a little bit of spider knowledge can be - even for the die-hard arachnophobe!

When not persuading people about how lovely spiders can be, Jim also works in schools doing science shows with Explorer Dome. He now operates a mobile planetarium from the West Midlands, and splits his time between the dome and the bugs - occasionally even combining the two together.

Testimonials from Teachers

"During our whole school Science Day, Jim worked with our Year 6 pupils. There was a real buzz in the classroom, especially when he got the creatures out! The children were fascinated by Jim's expertise and loved asking him questions about the animals and Jim's job. It was brilliant for the children to meet a 'scientist' that they could relate to!"

– Miss Haynes, Science Coordinator, Abbey Catholic Primary School

"Jim twice came to speak to our Exploring Science group and, on both occasions, was extremely well received. His first presentation was on spiders and arachnophobia which included the opportunity to handle some tarantulas for those brave enough to do so. Even those who kept their distance thoroughly enjoyed Jim’s lively and humorous delivery. His second talk was on the more controversial topic of genetically-modified food that provoked a lively debate that Jim handled well. I would be very happy to invite him back to talk to our group again."

– Dr Doug Richards, Leader of the Exploring Science Group, Redditch

"Jim's shows on the Solar Stage were perfectly tailored to our audience of inquisitive young minds. He delivers his content with authority and humour, never failing to entertain."

– Hayley Bennett, Solar Stage Manager, Green Man Festival

“Jim’s talk on the Solar Stage at Green Man Festival was exciting, funny, and really interesting. He kept the audience totally engaged throughout, and was a great addition to the programme. As a performer, Jim was very reliable and always went the extra mile – a pleasure to work with!”

– Madelon Foard, Stage Manager, Einstein's Garden