OpenCharities

This text was generated using OCR and may contain errors. Check the original PDF to see the document submitted to the regulator. This document is also available as Markdown.

← The Centre For Computing History

2024-08-31-accounts

Charity registration number 1130071 (England and Wales) Company registration number 06348133

THE CENTRE FOR COMPUTING HISTORY LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT AND UNAUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024

The Centre for Computing History is a Registered Charity: 1130071 (England & Wales) and private limited company: 06348133. Registered office: 1 Rene Court Coldhams Road Cambridge CB1 3EW

THE CENTRE FOR COMPUTING HISTORY LIMITED

LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION

Trustees Mr DEM Halstead Mr MP Muller Mr GT Marlow Mr PR Searle Mr PJ F Howell Ms Caylin Smith Charity number (England and Wales) 1130071 Company number 06348133 Principal address 1 Rene Court Coldhams Road Cambridge Cambridgeshire England CB1 3EW Registered office 1 Rene Court Coldhams Road Cambridge Cambridgeshire England CB1 3EW Independent examiner Sotos Christophi FCCA Aston Shaw Limited Chartered Certified Accountants The Union Building, 51-59 Rose Lane Norwich Norfolk England NR1 1BY

(Appointed 25 October 2023) (Appointed 25 October 2023)

THE CENTRE FOR COMPUTING HISTORY LIMITED

CONTENTS

Page
Annual report 1 - 16
Trustees report 17 - 18
Independent examiner's report 19
Statement of financial activities 20
Balance sheet 21
Notes to the financial statements 22 - 34

ANNUAL REPORT centre for computing history_ ACADEMIC YEAR 2023- 2024

Introduction from the Chair & CEO

Welcome to the Annual Report for The Centre for Computing History (CCH), covering the period Sept 2023 - Aug 2024.

Over the past year, the CCH strategically grew its unique collection of hardware, software, and ephemera to highlight contributions made by key people throughout computing history - the inventors, developers, and users - while also focusing on the incredible role played by the city of Cambridge in this ongoing history. Through hands-on displays and exhibitions, our learning and events programmes, and our historically significant collections of computing hardware, software, and ephemera, the CCH has helped nearly 20,000 people from across the United Kingdom enjoy and learn about the history of computing this year alone.

A large amount of this figure was 8,665 young people, including over 2,700 students who visited with their schools and colleges. These students left the museum having broadened their knowledge of computing history and the technology they use every day through fun, interactive experiences.

While the museum made some great achievements during the 2023-24 financial year, it was not an easy one. The roof of the store building had to be replaced at significant expense in September 2023, leading to a six week closure. This work was vital to ensure collection items are stored in safe, secure storage and protect collection items from possible damage or decay. However, it resulted in a considerable loss of revenue.

Museum staff decanted most of the building’s contents and used this opportunity to clean and catalogue collection items before moving them back into the store and reopening the museum to visitors. The urgency of the repairs meant there was a short period of fundraising, so the majority of the cost came from reserves.

This investment will underpin the CCH’s ability to allow visitors to see, touch, and interact with computing history, and to gain knowledge, understanding, and skills in computer science and computing history.

02

Centre for Computing History Annual Report

The need for a repository to collect stories and artefacts that bear witness to change as it happens has never been timelier. The CCH offers a perspective that is vital in times of rapid technological progress and global instability. Exploring the past to understand the present and shape the future is essential as we move into an era that could see societies transformed by advancements in artificial intelligence. Our collection will allow future generations to understand how, when, and why this key period of change took place and continues to evolve.

It is especially fitting that such a repository and perspective thrives in Cambridge, the birthplace of so many technological innovations. The Cambridge Phenomenon - the period from the 1960s to the present when there was an explosion in the number of advancements in computing technology emanating from Cambridge - is real. Cambridge deserves a museum that celebrates and showcases the diverse and far-reaching contributions it has made to the global community we now live in.

On behalf of the Centre for Computing History, we would like to thank everyone who makes our work possible, including staff, trustees, volunteers, partners, and the vibrant community of visitors, educators, and young people who support us and enjoy what we do.

As we progress further into 2025 and beyond, our aim is to keep strategic collaboration, diversity, and our local communities at the core of everything we do at the Centre for Computing History.

Lisa McGerty Chief Executive

Gareth Marlow Chair of Trustees

03

Centre for Computing History Annual Report

Our Impact 2023/2024

Though modest in size, the Centre for Computing History continues to have a significant impact on a range of audiences through our hands-on displays and exhibitions, our learning and events programmes, and our historically significant collections of computing hardware, software, and ephemera.

In July, we received exciting news - we’d been recognised with a 2024 Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice award, ranking it among the top 10% of attractions worldwide on their platform.

Visitors 2023/24

Nearly 20,000 people, including 8,665 young people.

Schools

Over 2,700 students were inspired on 89 immersive school visits

Contribution to the local economy

Local visitors: £182,195 Day visitors: £463,880

Private hire

The museum was hired for 28 private parties and events

Our Collection

Our Collection
Computers
Peripherals		 1,286
85
Mobile Devices 101
Game Consoles 340
Video Games
Software Packages
Books		 15,069
4,988
2,692
Manuals 4,343
Magazines
Documents
Photographs		 10,091
1,487
864

Talks, demos &

workshops We created nearly 100 events, including 34 different types of workshops!

Exhibitions

Six temporary exhibitions added interest

04

Centre for Computing History Annual Report

Our Mission

We are a welcoming, accessible museum with a strong commitment to learning. At its core, the CCH uses its collections and exhibitions to deliver educational programmes and events that explore the social, cultural, and historical impact - and lived experience - of computing over the past 80 years.

Future generations will marvel at how such a profoundly important and transformative cultural shift occurred in just 80 years. Through hands-on, inclusive experiences, we provide ways for visitors to explore how these powerful technologies became deeply woven into our daily lives and fundamentally reshaped our world.

Our Vision

To collect, preserve, and interpret tangible - and where possible working - artefacts and memories of computing history, particularly (but not exclusively) as it relates to the unique, local context of Cambridge and the UK.

To explore the social, cultural, and historical impact of that history with visitors of all kinds. An appreciation of the way the past has shaped the present, especially in terms of technology, has never been more important for understanding the world and providing creative inspiration for the future.

To inspire, delight, and motivate technical and non-technical audiences alike by enriching people’s lives through an open and reflective museum environment and learning opportunities for all.

05

Centre for Computing History Annual Report

Our Values

Relevant

We keep our collections and programmes relevant to all, creating an unforgettable visitor experience, and recognise that openness is key.

We aim to work in partnership with its many varied audiences, so that everyone can see themselves reflected in what the CCH displays, collects, and programmes.

Questioning

We debate and reflect on our work and encourage visitors and partners to do the same.

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 people learn best when they enjoy experiencing the technologies of the past and having fun.

We will always aim to be interactive and hands on.

Sustainable

We are committed to minimising our impact on the environment while showcasing the technologies of the past and their impact on our world.

We aim to conserve natural resources, reduce our carbon footprint and waste, protect the world around us, and prevent pollution where we can.

We continually improve our environmental performance and recognise we have a unique platform from which to inspire and educate others.

06

Centre for Computing History Annual Report

Learning

As part of offering educative opportunities for all, we run a comprehensive Learning Programme. This year more than 2,700 school students engaged in our formal learning programme at the museum: 89 visits in total, with at least two school visits every week during term time and many schools returning annually.

Thanks to generous corporate support from Citrix and Mathworks, the museum was able to reduce the cost to schools this year - with this vital discount making the visit affordable for many schools.

Student Visits by Key Stage

Our Learning team provides secondary and primary schools with a distinctive hands-on educational experience. Students engage in a rotation through four zones in the museum, each showcasing diverse historical artefacts in a range of activities offering different perspectives on the history, present day, and future of computing.

07

Centre for Computing History Annual Report

Learning activities include volunteer-led guided tours and workshops on topics schools often struggle to deliver themselves: coding, physical computing, and the history of communication. Our amazing Mega Processor - the world’s largest microprocessor - allows many visual learners to consolidate their understanding of computer architecture. Employee volunteers act as mentors and illustrate the breadth of careers available in tech industries.

A survey of GCSE students this year showed that their visit increased their knowledge of the ‘real world’ applications of computing and the variety of tech careers available to them, such as those in art, design, music, and storytelling, as well as the more obvious careers involving coding and hardware engineering. The survey also demonstrated the following benefits:

67% felt they would achieve a higher grade due to their visit

89% felt their computer science skills had improved

89% felt their understanding of the societal impact of computing had increased

08

Centre for Computing History Annual Report

In March 2024, the Centre for Computing History held its first schools coding competition, generously sponsored by our partner, Cambridge Rotary.

Aimed at upper Key Stage 2, the challenging but fun day included 13 teams from local schools, who competed for the Francis Hookham Trophy by completing a series of tasks to program micro:bit buggies to navigate an obstacle course. The challenge was devised by our team of education volunteers and Head of Learning, Dr Anjali Das, with the buggies generously sponsored by global tech company, U-Blox.

All the teams worked hard, but in the end, there could only be one winner – St Paul’s Primary School. Congratulations to the school and their inspirational young team on their momentous win!

For the CCH, these events provide the opportunity to engage and inspire different schools and young people, and to work with our Rotary partners.

For schools, they offer an engaging way to bolster student understanding of coding techniques and test those skills by undertaking physical computing challenges. And that is all wrapped up in the unique historical context provided by the museum.

“Today's coding was purposeful and gave the children a whole day to immerse themselves and achieve something. The environment makes computing and coding come to life.”

Trumpington Primary School.

09

Centre for Computing History Annual Report

The CCH’s programme of school holiday workshops, suitable for all ages from 4 years up, extends the impact of the formal learning opportunities it provides beyond schools. This summer, we delivered 29 workshops and other activities to 326 people during the 6-week school holiday.

In total, the museum reached more than 1,500 people through nearly 100 workshops, tours, and demonstrations over the year.

Feedback suggests that learners enjoy experimenting and trying new things in a safe space, making something physical, and building on these new skills after they leave the CCH. The social aspect of learning in the context of a museum was also deemed important, and the ‘tactile’ nature of our workshops is greatly appreciated by learners. Workshops were given an outstanding score of 9.28/10 over the year.

“A brilliant introduction to coding!” Parent of 7-year-old coder, March 24.

10

Centre for Computing History Annual Report

Our Collection

“Museums can increase our sense of wellbeing, help us feel proud of where we have come from, inspire, challenge and stimulate, and make us feel healthier. With society facing issues such as poverty, inequality, intolerance and discrimination, museums can help us to understand, debate, and challenge these concerns.”

Museums Association

The CCH is uniquely positioned to fulfill this role. By preserving historical artefacts, communicating narratives, teaching younger generations, and engaging in contemporary collecting, we ensure computing history is not just remembered, but lived. Our museum is a space of ongoing relevance, connecting past innovations to present challenges and future possibilities.

We have always aspired to become a national, even international, destination that encapsulates the Cambridge Phenomenon. We take a Cambridge first, British second, and European third approach to collecting. We recognise the global nature of modern society by also touching on the extraordinary contributions made by the US, Japan, and many other countries.

As an accredited museum, we ensure our collection is adequately documented, protected, and accessible and are committed to continued development. This year saw progress cataloguing items in our backlog.

To date, the CCH has deliberately over-collected: our collections are from within living memory and some items were mass produced, which means it is not yet clear which stories might prove to be the most important ones to future visitors. To ensure our relevance now and in the future, we take care not to make premature assumptions about what the CCH of the future will need to be.

That ethos has served the CCH well, but space in our current premises has become increasingly limited. As a result, the museum can now only acquire the most significant items. Throughout the year, the Collections team has been carefully sorting and repacking items, and streamlining specific collections where appropriate to make the most efficient use of the available space.

11

Centre for Computing History Annual Report

New key pieces preserved this year have included:

American ZX80

Tangerine Galactic Invaders consoles, possibly the last two surviving Differential Analyser oe

NewBear 77-68 Sinclair Black Watch Kit

We’ve continued to preserve video recordings of talks, interviews, and other events. Highlights include a talk with the late Lynn Conway, a transgender visionary in computer science; Ed Smith’s memories as one of the earliest Afro-American games console designers; scenes from our ‘portables’ and retro computing temporary exhibitions; and an interview with software developer Pete Fawcett.

The CCH’s own collections work has been highlighted in videos covering the modern successor to the Sinclair ZX Spectrum (Spectrum Next), the 1980 Galactic Invaders game console by Cambridge company Tangerine, and regular updates.

The breadth of topics covered adds richness to the collections, drives visits to the museum, raises our profile internationally, and helps both experts and non-experts alike to access and understand our physical artefacts and the stories they embody. The CCH uses Patreon to provide access to supporters ahead of general release.

12

Centre for Computing History Annual Report

Events & Exhibitions

The museum’s events programme drives footfall to the museum, generating revenue by opening up collections and displays to different audiences and providing an understanding of how technology shapes all our lives.

This year, the CCH delivered events ranging fro corporate team days, birthday parties and Kids’ Club Nights aimed at Scout and Guiding groups, to a weekend event celebrating portable computing over the years, and of course our ever-popular Retro Computing and Synthesized weekends.

We curated temporary exhibitions including the 40[th] anniversaries of Apple and Amstrad, and Computing on the Move, celebrating Amstrad’s 40th birthday - lots of 40[th] birthdays this year!

Retrofest 2023

It is increasingly important that we run these events to help people understand how we ended up in a world with more microchips than people; where the divide between the ‘haves’ and the ‘have nots’ - the digitally included and excluded - has increasingly far-reaching and dire consequences.

Such understanding empowers us to shape where our use of technology goes next, acting not as passive consumers but as active agents.

==> picture [284 x 11] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
E:
----- End of picture text -----

Computing on the Move

13

Centre for Computing History Annual Report

Research

Efforts to break down inequalities are central to the museum’s work, whether that is in highlighting the lesser–known women in computing history, or showcasing the forgotten devices of the past, their inventors, and their users. The technological failures and the people whose names were written out of history have as much to offer our understanding of the present as the successes and the celebrated – perhaps more. Such stories also serve to make computing accessible to the nontechnically minded.

The hands-on nature of our exhibits is intended to engage, delight and appeal across the age spectrum, from toddlers to seniors. We design our displays to appeal to those who know little about computing, as well as to the more obvious ‘techie’ audience. Importantly, the experience we provide encourages intergenerational conversations and shared experiences, vitally important in a world that encourages us to focus on our differences rather than our similarities.

CCH staff contribute to research projects on computing history, on how museums create, present and preserve it, and on how children and others learn from it. This year, we've contributed to research on:

Research outputs are available online and in published books such as Museums and the History of Computing, published by Routledge.

We’re excited for our next project which uses participatory practice to explore how we might address the environmental impact of the technologies we celebrate.

14

Centre for Computing History Annual Report

Our Volunteers

The CCH continues to benefit from the work of a core group of 40 active volunteers, who are, quite simply, the backbone of the museum.

Volunteers work on everything from delivering learning sessions and tours, to coaxing decades- old computers back to working condition, to organising and helping at events, and much more.

We are also fortunate to be able to call on employee volunteers, who share their experiences with young people and help us bring to life the huge variety of careers in tech, and the varied routes to get there!

Volunteer support and expertise is a valued part of everything the CCH does. The staff team and our visitors hugely appreciate their knowledge, time and passion for our museum.

Thank you!

15

Centre for Computing History Annual Report

Our Supporters

The Centre for Computing History is incredibly grateful to all our donors, funders and partners. Whether through financial or pro-bono contributions, your vital support has underpinned another exciting year preserving vital artefacts of computing history; bringing to life the journey to the modern age; and inspiring future generations. Actively building these relationships has been a key focus this year.

2023/24 highlights include:

Thank you to all our visitors, volunteers, funders and partners. Your vital support makes so much possible. We look forward to continuing to work together in the year ahead!

16

Centre for Computing History Annual Report

THE CENTRE FOR COMPUTING HISTORY LIMITED

TRUSTEES REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024

The trustees present their trustees report and financial statements for the year ended 31 August 2024. The annual report can be found on page 20.

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the accounting policies set out in the financial statements and comply with the charity's articles of association, the Companies Act 2006 and "Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102)" (effective 1 January 2019).

Objectives and activites

The trustees have paid due regard to guidance issued by the Charity Commission on the Public Benefit requirement under the Charities Act 2011.

The activities undertaken by the Centre for Computing History further its charitable purposes for the public benefit in several areas, in particular through its public and learning programmes and exhibitions. The main charitable objective of the charity is to promote, maintain, improve and advance public education in the history of computing.

Achievements and performance

Financial review

Total incoming resources in the year amounted to £324,685 (2023: £422,032). With total expenditure incurred at £426,335 (2023: £452,107), overall the net movement in funds was a net outflow of £101,650 (2023: £30,075).

The net assets of the charity at the balance sheet date were £1,543,574 compared with £1,645,224 in the previous year.

The charity's reserves policy is to maintain reserves at a level adequate to protect its ongoing work from fluctuation in funding. At the year end, the charity had reserves of £1,543,574 (2023: £1,645,224). Of these, £1,250,252 (2023: £1,334,263) are restricted funds over which there are specific conditions relating to their application. Unrestricted reserves at the year-end date total £293,322 (2023: £310,961).

The reserves at the year ended 2024, include cover for an unsecured loan of £126,100 (2023: £145,000) representing the charity’s outstanding loan commitments.

It is the charity's policy that the general (unrestricted) reserves should not fall below £90,000. The charity incurred significant expenditure in 2023 to replace the roof of our collection store - £80,422, of which £65,562 falls into the current financial year. This depleted the building maintenance fund with the remainder funded from unrestricted cash reserves.

As of 20 May 2024, our current unrestricted cash reserves stand at £48,000, compared to our target reserves level of £90,000. Our designated building maintenance fund has a balance of £0, with a target of £150,000 based on projected maintenance needs.

As current unrestricted cash reserves have now fallen below the minimum, the trustees must prioritise their replenishment from surplus income and earmarked donations. The building maintenance fund will be replenished once the general reserves level of £90,000 has been achieved.

Structure, governance and management

The charity is a registered charity and a company limited by guarantee, incorporated in the United Kingdom and registered in England and Wales, governed by its Memorandum and Articles of Association dated 20 August 2007. It is registered as a charity with the Charity Commission for England and Wales. The Board of Trustees is responsible for managing the business of the charity and there are regular scheduled meetings of the Board each year. Responsibility for the day to day running of the charity is given to Lisa McGerty.

THE CENTRE FOR COMPUTING HISTORY LIMITED

TRUSTEES REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024

The trustees, who are also the directors for the purpose of company law, and who served during the year and up to the date of signature of the financial statements were:

Mr DEM Halstead Mr MP Muller Ms EF C S Upton (Resigned 23 January 2024) Mr GT Marlow Mr BE Davies (Resigned 23 October 2024) Mr PR Searle Mr PJ F Howell (Appointed 25 October 2023) Mrs ST Cheng (Appointed 25 October 2023 and resigned 20 September 2024) Ms Caylin Smith (Appointed 25 October 2023)

Trustees are appointed by the Annual General Meeting or by resolution of the Board of Trustees. The number of trustees shall not be less than two and the total number is not subject to any maximum unless otherwise determined by an ordinary resolution of the Annual General Meeting.

It is the policy of the Trust to appoint new trustees via open recruitment processes and occasionally by personal invitation where particular knowledge, skills and backgrounds would be helpful in furthering the charity's aims. It also seeks to recruit trustees via broader recruitment campaigns where appropriate. All new trustees are provided with an induction session on site and meetings with the Management Team. They are also directed to the Charity's Commission advice and guidance for trustees.

The Trustees report was approved by the Board of Trustees.

.............................. Mr GT Marlow Trustee

Date: .............................................26 June 2025

THE CENTRE FOR COMPUTING HISTORY LIMITED INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES OF THE CENTRE FOR COMPUTING HISTORY LIMITED I report lo the trustees on my examination of the financial slalements of The Centre for Computing History Limited (the charity) for the year ended 31 August 2024. Responsibilities and basls of report As the trustees of the charity land also its directors for the purposes of company lawl you are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements in accordance with the requirements of tha Companies Act 2006 Ilhe 2006 Act}. Having satisfied myself that the financial slalemenls of the charity are not required to be audiled under Part 16 of the 2006 Act and are eligible for independent examination, I report in respect of my examination of the charity s financial slalements carried out under section 145 of the Charities Act 2011 (the 2011 Acll. In carrying out my examination I have followed all the applicab16 Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(51(bl of the 2011 Act. Independent examinerfs Statement Since the charity's gross income exceeded £250,000 your examiner musl be a rnember of a body listed in section 145 of the 2011 Act. I confirm that l am qualified lo undertake the examination because l am a member of ACCA, which is one of the listed bodies. I have completed my examination. l confirm that no matters have Come to my attention in conne¢lion with the examination giving me cause lo believè that in any material respect- accounting records were not kept in réspect of the charity as required by section 386 of the 2006 Act., or the financial ststemenls do not accord wilh those records., or the financial slalemenls do not comply with the accounting requirements of section 396 of the 2006 Act other than any requirement that the accounts give a true and fair view which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination; or the financial statements have not been prepared in accordance with Ihe methods and principles of the Statement of Recommended Practice for a¢¢ounling and reporting by charities applicable lo charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard appSicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland {FRS 102). I have no concerns and have come across no olher matters in connection with the examination lo which attention should be drawn in this report in order lo enable a proper understanding of the financial slalemenls to be reached. Sotos Christophl FCCA Aston Shaw Limited Chartered Certified Accounlanls The Union Building, 51-59 Rose Lane Norwich Norfolk NR1 1BY England Dated". 771061aoa5 19

THE CENTRE FOR COMPUTING HISTORY LIMITED

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES INCLUDING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024

Unrestricted
Restricted
funds
funds
2024
2024
Notes
£
£
Income from:
Donations and legacies
3
172,753
4,662
Charitable activities
5
104,455
500
Investments
4
42,315
-
Total income
319,523
5,162
Expenditure on:
Raising funds
6
14,672
-
Charitable activities
7
376,301
35,362
Total expenditure
390,973
35,362
Net expenditure
(71,450)
(30,200)
Transfers between
funds
53,811
(53,811)
Net movement in
funds
(17,639)
(84,011)
Reconciliation of funds:
Fund balances at 1 September
2023
310,961
1,334,263
Fund balances at 31 August
2024
293,322
1,250,252		 Total
Unrestricted
Restricted
funds
funds
2024
2023
2023
£
£
£
177,415
165,992
106,800
104,955
109,349
40
42,315
39,851
-
324,685
315,192
106,840
14,672
19,016
2,976
411,663
336,150
93,965
426,335
355,166
96,941
(101,650)
(39,974)
9,899
-
(29,352)
29,352
(101,650)
(69,326)
39,251
1,645,224
380,287
1,295,012
1,543,574
310,961
1,334,263		 Total
2023
£
272,792
109,389
39,851
422,032
21,992
430,115
452,107
(30,075)
-
(30,075)
1,675,299
1,645,224

The statement of financial activities includes all gains and losses recognised in the year. All income and expenditure derive from continuing activities.

THE CENTRE FOR COMPUTING HISTORY LIMITED

BALANCE SHEET

AS AT 31 AUGUST 2024

Notes
Fixed assets
Tangible assets
12
Heritage assets
11
Investment property
13
Current assets
Stocks
14
Debtors
15
Cash at bank and in hand
Creditors: amounts falling due within
one year
17
Net current (liabilities)/assets
Total assets less current liabilities
The funds of the charity
Restricted income funds
21
Unrestricted funds
22		 2024
£
£
1,223,555
40,000
299,861
1,563,416
11,722
36,204
97,349
145,275
(165,117)
(19,842)
1,543,574
1,250,252
293,322
1,543,574		 2023
£
£
1,175,285
40,000
299,861
1,515,146
15,456
23,083
276,311
314,850
(184,772)
130,078
1,645,224
1,334,263
310,961
1,645,224		 2023
£
£
1,175,285
40,000
299,861
1,515,146
15,456
23,083
276,311
314,850
(184,772)
130,078
1,645,224
1,334,263
310,961
1,645,224
1,515,146
130,078
1,645,224
1,334,263
310,961
1,645,224

The notes on pages 22 to 34 form part of these financial statements.

The company is entitled to the exemption from the audit requirement contained in section 477 of the Companies Act 2006, for the year ended 31 August 2024.

The directors acknowledge their responsibilities for complying with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 with respect to accounting records and the preparation of financial statements.

The members have not required the company to obtain an audit of its financial statements for the year in question in accordance with section 476.

These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to companies subject to the small companies regime.

The financial statements were approved by the trustees on .........................25 June 2025

SIGN

.............................. Mr GT Marlow Trustee

Company registration number 06348133 (England and Wales)

THE CENTRE FOR COMPUTING HISTORY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024

1 Accounting policies

Charity information

The Centre for Computing History Limited is a private company limited by guarantee incorporated in England and Wales. The registered office is 1 Rene Court, Coldhams Road, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB1 3EW, England.

1.1 Accounting convention

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the charity's governing document, the Companies Act 2006, FRS 102 “The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland” (“FRS 102”) and the Charities SORP "Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102)" (effective 1 January 2019). The charity is a Public Benefit Entity as defined by FRS 102.

The charity has taken advantage of the provisions in the SORP for charities not to prepare a Statement of Cash Flows.

The financial statements are prepared in sterling, which is the functional currency of the charity. Monetary amounts in these financial statements are rounded to the nearest £.

The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention, modified to include the revaluation of freehold properties and to include investment properties and certain financial instruments at fair value. The principal accounting policies adopted are set out below.

1.2 Going concern

At the time of approving the financial statements, the trustees have a reasonable expectation that the charity has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. Thus the trustees continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing the financial statements.

1.3 Charitable funds

Unrestricted funds are available for use at the discretion of the trustees in furtherance of their charitable objectives.

Restricted funds are subject to specific conditions by donors or grantors as to how they may be used. The purposes and uses of the restricted funds are set out in the notes to the financial statements.

1.4 Income

Income is recognised when the charity is legally entitled to it after any performance conditions have been met, the amounts can be measured reliably, and it is probable that income will be received.

Cash donations are recognised on receipt. Other donations are recognised once the charity has been notified of the donation, unless performance conditions require deferral of the amount. Income tax recoverable in relation to donations received under Gift Aid or deeds of covenant is recognised at the time of the donation.

Legacies are recognised on receipt or otherwise if the charity has been notified of an impending distribution, the amount is known, and receipt is expected. If the amount is not known, the legacy is treated as a contingent asset.

Volunteers play an important role in the activities of the Charity. However, their contribution cannot be measured reliably and therefore a value has not been included in the accounts.

THE CENTRE FOR COMPUTING HISTORY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024

1 Accounting policies

(Continued)

1.5 Expenditure

Expenditure is recognised once there is a legal or constructive obligation to transfer economic benefit to a third party, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefits will be required in settlement, and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably.

All expenditure is accounted for on an accruals basis.

Irrecoverable VAT is charged against the expenditure heading for which it is incurred, where applicable.

1.6 Tangible fixed assets

Tangible fixed assets are initially measured at cost and subsequently measured at cost or valuation, net of depreciation and any impairment losses.

Depreciation is recognised so as to write off the cost or valuation of assets less their residual values over their useful lives on the following bases:

Freehold land and buildings 50 years Straight Line Plant and equipment 3-5 years Straight Line Fixtures and fittings 5-10 years Straight Line

Freehold land and assets in the course of construction are not depreciated.

The gain or loss arising on the disposal of an asset is determined as the difference between the sale proceeds and the carrying value of the asset, and is recognised in the statement of financial activities.

1.7 Investment property

Investment property, which is property held to earn rentals and/or for capital appreciation, is initially recognised at cost, which includes the purchase cost and any directly attributable expenditure. Subsequently it is measured at fair value at the reporting end date. The surplus or deficit on revaluation is recognised in profit or loss.

1.8 Heritage assets

The current policy is to capitalise significant assets in the balance sheet at deemed cost except in the situation where there is insufficient information to arrive at a reasonable valuation or the cost of obtaining such information would exceed the benefit of obtaining the data.

The trustees consider that the property has indefinite life and so systematic annual depreciation would be inappropriate. The property is included on the Balance Sheet at deemed cost.

1.9 Impairment of fixed assets

At each reporting end date, the charity reviews the carrying amounts of its tangible assets to determine whether there is any indication that those assets have suffered an impairment loss. If any such indication exists, the recoverable amount of the asset is estimated in order to determine the extent of the impairment loss (if any).

1.10 Stocks

Stocks are stated at the lower of cost and estimated selling price less costs to complete and sell. Cost comprises direct materials and, where applicable, direct labour costs and those overheads that have been incurred in bringing the stocks to their present location and condition. Items held for distribution at no or nominal consideration are measured the lower of replacement cost and cost.

THE CENTRE FOR COMPUTING HISTORY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024

1 Accounting policies

(Continued)

Net realisable value is the estimated selling price less all estimated costs of completion and costs to be incurred in marketing, selling and distribution.

1.11 Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents include cash in hand, deposits held at call with banks, other short-term liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less, and bank overdrafts. Bank overdrafts are shown within borrowings in current liabilities.

1.12 Financial instruments

The charity has elected to apply the provisions of Section 11 ‘Basic Financial Instruments’ and Section 12 ‘Other Financial Instruments Issues’ of FRS 102 to all of its financial instruments.

Financial instruments are recognised in the charity's balance sheet when the charity becomes party to the contractual provisions of the instrument.

Financial assets and liabilities are offset, with the net amounts presented in the financial statements, when there is a legally enforceable right to set off the recognised amounts and there is an intention to settle on a net basis or to realise the asset and settle the liability simultaneously.

Basic financial assets

Basic financial assets, which include debtors and cash and bank balances, are initially measured at transaction price including transaction costs and are subsequently carried at amortised cost using the effective interest method unless the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, where the transaction is measured at the present value of the future receipts discounted at a market rate of interest. Financial assets classified as receivable within one year are not amortised.

Basic financial liabilities

Basic financial liabilities, including creditors and bank loans are initially recognised at transaction price unless the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, where the debt instrument is measured at the present value of the future payments discounted at a market rate of interest. Financial liabilities classified as payable within one year are not amortised.

Debt instruments are subsequently carried at amortised cost, using the effective interest rate method.

Trade creditors are obligations to pay for goods or services that have been acquired in the ordinary course of operations from suppliers. Amounts payable are classified as current liabilities if payment is due within one year or less. If not, they are presented as non-current liabilities. Trade creditors are recognised initially at transaction price and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method.

Derecognition of financial liabilities

Financial liabilities are derecognised when the charity ’s contractual obligations expire or are discharged or cancelled.

1.13 Employee benefits

The cost of any unused holiday entitlement is recognised in the period in which the employee’s services are received.

Termination benefits are recognised immediately as an expense when the charity is demonstrably committed to terminate the employment of an employee or to provide termination benefits.

1.14 Retirement benefits

Payments to defined contribution retirement benefit schemes are charged as an expense as they fall due.

THE CENTRE FOR COMPUTING HISTORY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024

2 Critical accounting estimates and judgements

In the application of the charity’s accounting policies, the trustees are required to make judgements, estimates and assumptions about the carrying amount of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. The estimates and associated assumptions are based on historical experience and other factors that are considered to be relevant. Actual results may differ from these estimates.

The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimate is revised where the revision affects only that period, or in the period of the revision and future periods where the revision affects both current and future periods.

Key estimate

The following judgements (apart from those involving estimates) have had the most significant effect on amounts recognised in the financial statements.

Valuation of investment properties

The company values investment properties at fair value. The fair value is arrived at from the directors' knowledge of the underlying properties.

3 Income from donations and legacies

Unrestricted
Restricted
funds
funds
2024
2024
£
£
Donations and gifts
172,003
662
Grants
750
4,000
172,753
4,662
Donations and gifts
Admission Fees-walk in
138,405
-
Donations
24,180
662
Gift Aid
9,418
-
172,003
662
Income from investments
Rental income
Interest receivable		 Total
Unrestricted
Restricted
Total
funds
funds
2024
2023
2023
2023
£
£
£
£
172,665
165,992
2,328
168,320
4,750
-
104,472
104,472
177,415
165,992
106,800
272,792
138,405
147,670
2,280
149,950
24,842
7,523
48
7,571
9,418
10,799
-
10,799
172,665
165,992
2,328
168,320
Unrestricted Unrestricted
funds
funds
2024
2023
£
£
39,607
38,828
2,708
1,023
42,315
39,851		 Total
2023
£
168,320
104,472
272,792
149,950
7,571
10,799
168,320
39,851

4 Income from investments

THE CENTRE FOR COMPUTING HISTORY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024

5 Charitable activities

Charitable
Income
Other trading
activities
2024
2024
£
£
Shop Sales
5,075
31,178
Patreon
2,033
-
Event Fees
10,136
-
Sponsorship
4,571
-
Education Services
35,652
-
Other Income
3,745
-
Private Hire Admissions
-
12,565
61,212
43,743		 Total
2024
Charitable
Income
Other trading
activities
2023
2023
£
£
£
36,253
9,215
38,119
2,033
2,902
-
10,136
9,682
-
4,571
5,500
-
35,652
28,720
-
3,745
2,063
-
12,565
-
13,188
104,955
58,082
51,307		 Total
2023
£
47,334
2,902
9,682
5,500
28,720
2,063
13,188
109,389

6 Expenditure on raising funds

Unrestricted Restricted Total Unrestricted Restricted Total
funds funds funds funds
2024 2024 2024 2023 2023 2023
£ £ £ £ £ £
Trading costs
Operating charity shops 14,672 - 14,672 19,016 2,976 21,992

THE CENTRE FOR COMPUTING HISTORY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024

7 Charitable activities

Charitable
Charitable
Expenditure Expenditure
2024 2023
£ £
Staff costs 276,554 287,724
Depreciation and impairment 27,483 21,793
Rent, Rates and Utility Costs 33,428 30,499
Insurance 10,971 11,912
Repairs, maintenance and office equipment 23,229 21,191
Advertising and Marketing 4,485 4,783
Display Development 1,429 8,450
Postage 1,585 2,569
Travel 83 1,116
Workshop expenses 5,169 3,676
Admission fees 8,188 3,386
Legal and Professional 7,600 21,504
Independent Examiner's Fees 5,500 5,500
Bookkeeping 1,650 1,718
Bank charges 3,923 3,953
Bad Debt Written Off - (225)
Other charitable expenditure 386 566
411,663 430,115
Analysis by fund
Unrestricted funds 376,301 336,150
Restricted funds 35,362 93,965
411,663 430,115

8 Trustees

None of the trustees (or any persons connected with them) received any remuneration or benefits from the charity during the year.

9 Employees

The average monthly number of employees during the year was:

Permanent staff
Casual staff
Total		 2024
Number
11
2
13		 2023
Number
10
2
12

THE CENTRE FOR COMPUTING HISTORY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024

9
Employees
Employment costs
Wages and salaries
Social security costs
Other pension costs		 (Continued)
2024
2023
£
£
250,031
261,627
16,999
16,778
9,524
9,319
276,554
287,724		 (Continued)
2024
2023
£
£
250,031
261,627
16,999
16,778
9,524
9,319
276,554
287,724
287,724

There were no employees whose annual remuneration was more than £60,000.

10 Taxation

The charity is exempt from taxation on its activities because all its income is applied for charitable purposes.

11 Heritage assets

£

At 1 September 2023 and at 31 August 2024
12
Tangible fixed assets
Freehold land
and buildings
£
Cost
At 1 September 2023
1,179,978
Additions
62,140
At 31 August 2024
1,242,118
Depreciation and impairment
At 1 September 2023
49,260
Depreciation charged in the year
12,934
At 31 August 2024
62,194
Carrying amount
At 31 August 2024
1,179,924
At 31 August 2023
1,130,718		 Plant and
equipment
Fixtures and
fittings
£
£
110,740
71,889
4,681
8,931
115,421
80,820
86,271
51,791
6,919
7,629
93,190
59,420
22,231
21,400
24,469
20,098		 40,000
Total
£
1,362,607
75,752
1,438,359
187,322
27,482
214,804
1,223,555
1,175,285

THE CENTRE FOR COMPUTING HISTORY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024

13 Investment property

Investment property
2024
£
Fair value
At 1 September 2023 and 31 August 2024 299,861

Investment property comprises of commercial units only. The properties were purchased in May 2019. The directors consider there has been no change in the fair value at the year end.

Freehold
14
Stocks
Finished goods and goods for resale
15
Debtors
Amounts falling due within one year:
Trade debtors
Other debtors
Prepayments and accrued income
16
Loans and overdrafts
Loans from related parties
Payable within one year		 2024
£
299,861
2024
£
11,722
2024
£
17,506
1,749
16,949
36,204
2024
£
126,100
126,100		 2023
£
299,861
2023
£
15,456
2023
£
2,624
556
19,903
23,083
2023
£
145,000
145,000

The loans from related parties have no security and are interest free.

In 2019 a former trustee, Mr N Davidson (resigned 23 March 2021), lent the charity £250,000. At 31 August 2023, the balance was £145,000. At 31 August 2024, the balance is £126,100. No interest is being charged on the loan and it is unsecured.

THE CENTRE FOR COMPUTING HISTORY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024

17 Creditors: amounts falling due within one year

Notes
Borrowings
Other taxation and social security
Deferred income
19
Trade creditors
Other creditors
Accruals
18
Retirement benefit schemes
Defined contribution schemes
Charge to profit or loss in respect of defined contribution schemes		 2024
£
126,100
3,485
3,307
24,600
1,082
6,543
165,117
2024
£
5,081		 2023
£
145,000
813
3,229
27,749
-
7,981
184,772
2023
£
5,110

The charity operates a defined contribution pension scheme for all qualifying employees. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the charity in an independently administered fund.

19 Deferred income

Other deferred income
Deferred income is included in the financial statements as follows:
Deferred income is included within:
Current liabilities		 2024
£
3,307
2024
£
3,307		 2023
£
3,229
2023
£
3,229

THE CENTRE FOR COMPUTING HISTORY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024

20 Analysis of net assets between funds

Unrestricted
Restricted
funds
funds
2024
2024
£
£
At 31 August 2024:
Tangible assets
(80,333)
1,303,888
Heritage assets
40,000
-
Investment properties
220,247
79,614
Current assets/(liabilities)
113,408
(133,250)
293,322
1,250,252
Unrestricted
Restricted
funds
funds
2023
2023
£
£
At 31 August 2023:
Tangible assets
58,664
1,116,621
Heritage assets
40,000
-
Investment properties
220,247
79,614
Current assets/(liabilities)
(7,950)
138,028
310,961
1,334,263		 Total
2024
£
1,223,555
40,000
299,861
(19,842)
1,543,574
Total
2023
£
1,175,285
40,000
299,861
130,078
1,645,224

THE CENTRE FOR COMPUTING HISTORY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024

21 Restricted funds

The restricted funds of the charity comprise the unexpended balances of donations and grants held on trust subject to specific conditions by donors as to how they may be used.

Balance at
1 September
2022
£
Odyssey
27,367
Women in Computing
994
Education Programme
3,000
Aim Conservation Grant
296
Virtual Computer Collector
977
Education Discount Fund
9,504
Leo NLHF
22,202
Tangible Fixed Assets
1,210,824
NLHF Emergency Covid Grant
66
Web@30/IT Fund
14,219
Early Years
5,563
1,295,012		 Movement in funds
Incoming
resources
Resources
expended
Transfers
Balance at
1 September
2023
£
£
£
£
-
(62)
-
27,305
-
(431)
-
563
-
(133)
8,513
11,380
91
(426)
-
(39)
88
-
-
1,065
-
(3,386)
-
6,118
104,381
(68,728)
-
57,855
-
(13,754)
20,839
1,217,909
-
-
-
66
2,280
(9,668)
-
6,831
-
(353)
-
5,210
106,840
(96,941)
29,352
1,334,263		 Movement in funds
Incoming
resources
Resources
expended
Transfers
£
£
£
-
(475)
-
-
(69)
-
500
(5,480)
-
-
-
39
48
-
-
4,000
(8,188)
4,071
-
-
(57,855)
-
(18,039)
-
-
-
(66)
-
(1,975)
-
614
(1,136)
-
5,162
(35,362)
(53,811)		 Balance at
31 August
2024
£
26,830
494
6,400
-
1,113
6,001
-
1,199,870
-
4,856
4,688
1,250,252

THE CENTRE FOR COMPUTING HISTORY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024

21 Restricted funds

(Continued)

Fund Structure

Odyssey - This includes funds received for the purpose of refurbishing the main gallery space.

Women In Computing - This includes funds received to advance knowledge of the role of women in computing through events and education. Education Programme - This fund supports the learning programme.

AIM Conservation Grant - This fund relates to the management of museum collections.

Virtual Computer Collector - The fund was contributed by supporters for the purpose of purchasing or repairing collection items. Education Discount Fund - This fund relates to amounts received to subsidise school visits to the museum.

LEO NLHF - This fund relates to amounts received for a digitisation and research project on LEO Computers.

Tangible Fixed Assets - This fund relates to the purchase of the charity's premises at Rene Court.

NLHF Emergency Covid Grant - This grant supported the museum through the Covid pandemic by contributing to core costs and to help prepare for reopening. Web@30/IT Fund - This fund supports temporary or digital exhibitions.

Early Years - This fund is to increase provision for very young visitors to the museum.

22 Designated funds

The unrestricted funds of the charity comprise the unexpended balances of donations and grants which are not subject to specific conditions by donors and grantors as to how they may be used. These include designated funds which have been set aside out of unrestricted funds by the trustees for specific purposes.

Movement in funds Movement in funds Movement in funds Movement in funds
Balance at Incoming Resources Transfers Balance at Incoming Resources Balance at
1 September resources expended 1 September resources expended 31 August
2022 2023 2024
£ £ £ £ £ £ £ £
Education Programme 8,513 - - (8,513) - - - -
Maintenance Fund 35,000 - - - 35,000 - (35,000) -
43,513 - - (8,513) 35,000 - (35,000) -

Education Programme - This includes funds received to support the Education Officer post.

The Maintenance Fund - This was an amount agreed by the Trustees that was ringfenced for any substantial repairs that may occur.

THE CENTRE FOR COMPUTING HISTORY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024

23 Members Liability

The charity is incorporated under the Companies Act 2006 and is limited by guarantee, each member having undertaken to contribute such amounts not exceeding £10 as may be required in the event of the company being wound up while he or she is still a member or within one year thereafter.

24 Related party transactions

No remuneration was paid to trustees in the current or previous financial year.

No expenses were paid to trustees or connected persons in the current or previous financial year.

During the year, no Trustees made any donations to the charity.

In 2019 a former trustee, Mr N Davidson (resigned 23 March 2021), lent the charity £250,000. At 31 August 2023, the balance was £145,000. At 31 August 2024, the balance is £126,100. No interest is being charged on the loan and it is unsecured.

The Centre for Computing History is a Registered Charity: 1130071 (England & Wales) and private limited company: 06348133. Registered office: 1 Rene Court Coldhams Road Cambridge CB1 3E