Schools
Combine excellence in teaching with enjoyment in learning.
Explore the history of South Tyneside from the nineteenth century to the present day. Walk down a reconstructed Victorian Street and see a Victorian kitchen. Take a look at art in the highly interactive 'Art Adventure'. Explore the materials and processes involved in making a painting. See video presentations of artists at work and investigate the Art Adventure database. Explore the environment and people of South Tyneside in 'Land, River and Sea'. The gallery has something to offer children of all ages and abilities.
South Shields Museum & Art Gallery is an essential part of any history study and art and design topics, but we can also provide exciting days out as part of geography or environmental studies, literacy, numeracy & science topics.
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) 456 8740.
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 Museum's displays. To book contact the Learning Team on 0191 553 2323.
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?
We recommend that you make a preliminary visit. Learning staff can meet with you to give advice on getting the most out of your visit.
How long will a visit take?
Organised workshops within the Museum are structured to last 1½ hours. Depending on the focus of your visit we recommend schools allow between 1 - 2½ hours for a self led visit.
How much will a visit cost?
Admission is FREE.
What do I do on arrival?
Please report to the reception desk on arrival.
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?
A hazard identification form to help you to complete your Risk Assessment is available from the download section of this website. The Museum is perfectly safe but there are areas where extra care should be taken. The Museum is approximately 20 metres set back from the main road and runs along side the Sunderland to Newcastle railway track. The sidings have barriers to stop children walking near the track and the trains can be viewed from the platform gallery. Children must be supervised in all areas.
Where can we have lunch?
There are two lunch rooms which must be booked in advance.
Are there toilets?
There are toilets on the ground floor and first floors. Accessible toilets are on the ground floor.
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 small groups.
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.