Schools

Combine excellence in teaching with enjoyment in learning.

The Laing Art Gallery is home to an important collection of fine and decorative art. On display are magnificent works from the collection alongside temporary exhibitions of historic and contemporary art featuring internationally renowned artists. Its impressive permanent collection includes beautiful 18th and 19th century paintings and world-renowned watercolours. The gallery has initiated a national competition, Laing Solo, to showcase emerging artists. A friendly, accessible environment, the Laing has a wealth of resources to help everyone find out more about art.

The Laing Art Gallery is an essential part of any art and design study across the key stages, with an exciting and varied programme of guided introductions and led sessions throughout the year. There are also cross-curricular programmes for some temporary exhibitions.

Our dedicated Schools Online site is currently being redeveloped for the new school term and will be relaunched shortly. Until then, please contact the venue directly on (0191) 211 2104.

What is there to see?

Please see our Displays and Curriculum Links section for more details.

How do I book?

Please let us know in advance if you would like to make a visit. This allows us to avoid overcrowding in the building and gives you better access to the gallery's displays. To book please telephone the Learning Team on 0191 211 2104.

If you would like to make a visit enquiry for an event that requires booking you can use our online visit enquiry form

How much will a visit cost?

Admission to the Gallery and all exhibitions is FREE.

What do I do on arrival?

Please arrange your party into groups before you arrive. All visiting groups should report to the front of house staff on duty at the reception desk just inside the front doors. You will be asked to sign in as a precaution in case of a fire alarm. The front of house staff will then advise you where to go as necessary.

How many adults should I bring?

Please bring at least one adult for every ten children. The adults are responsible for the children at all times during the visit. Please try to prepare the adult helpers before you come, letting them know the aim of your visit can make it a much more valuable experience for them and the children.

Are there any safety issues?

The Gallery is a safe environment. However, please do not leave children unsupervised on the stairs or allow them to run in the Gallery.

Can I make a preliminary visit?

Please contact a member of the Learning Team if you would like to make a preliminary visit.

Are there toilets?

There are toilets at the back of the cafe and next to the education room.

Is there a shop?

The shop has a range of inexpensive souvenir items for children. If you allow children to use the shop please plan in plenty of time for them to do so. It is helpful for us if you bring children to the shop in groups of 10 children or less.

The Laing has a large café which is fully accessible and has high chairs for babies.

Do you have a risk assessment?

No, but we have already identified the hazards for you. The hazard identification forms can be found in the download section.

Are there any downloads?

Teacher's packs and hazard ID's can be found in the download section of the website.