Schools
Combine excellence in teaching with enjoyment in learning.
Discover the fantastic range of art and design on show in the friendly surroundings of the Shipley Art Gallery. Home to the broadest range of contemporary craft outside London as well as a spectacular collection of fine art, including William Irving's painting 'The Blaydon Races,' the Shipley is an inspiring day out for your class. There is also a dedicated handling collection of contemporary craft objects for use with visiting school groups of all ages. A wide range of activities take place in the gallery including; drawing, felt- making, wire-working, weaving, and proggy-mat making.
The Shipley Art Gallery is an essential part of any study of art and design and local history, but we can also provide exciting days out with links to other areas of the curriculum such as Maths, Science and Design & Technology.
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) 477 1495.
What is there to see?
Please see our Displays and Curriculum Links section for more details.
How do I book?
Visits to the Shipley Art Gallery should be booked in advance by contacting the Gallery. Tailored visits for your group can be organised by prior arrangement with the Learning Officer.
If you would like to make a visit enquiry for an event that requires booking you can use our online visit enquiry form.
Can I make a preliminary visit?
Visits are self-guided unless prior arrangements have been made, so it is highly recommended that you visit the Gallery before you come with your group. A preliminary visit will give you the opportunity to meet the staff and ensure that your visit goes smoothly.
What do I do on arrival?
Please arrange your party into groups before arrival. All visiting groups need to sign in on arrival. The front of house staff will be on hand to show you where to put bags and coats.
How many adults should I bring?
There is no restriction on the number of adult helpers required but it is suggested that one adult should accompany each group of ten children. The adults will be responsible for the children at all times during the visit.
Are there any safety issues?
The gallery is generally a safe place to be. Children should be advised to walk rather than run in the gallery and advised not to touch any of the exhibits. Any special activities that the children are involved in will be assessed for health and safety risks and discussed with the group leader.
Are there toilets?
The Shipley Art Gallery has accessible toilets.
Is there a shop?
The gallery shop supplies a range of gifts and souvenir items.
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.