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Schools Offer

Notices

Looking, Thinking, Making workshops

KS1/KS2/KS3/KS4

Our in-gallery workshops respond to the vibrant exhibitions programme which changes several times a year and showcases painting, sculpture, drawing, textiles, printmaking and even video installations! The sessions make links with the curriculum, including English as well as Art & Design. 

Students receive a Curator-led tour of the exhibition which encourages them to look and think, supports them in being confident in an art gallery, and develops their own ideas. Each workshop has two key elements of up to one hour each:

1. Pupils' investigation of the works on display, engaging them in drawing, making, written and discursive activities, in order to develop their observation, drawing, critical thinking, language, oracy skills, and spark their imaginations.

2. A hands-on 'making' activity inspired by materials or themes in the gallery exhibition, led by a local artist.

'A wonderful session for all of the children. They were really engaged and were able to revisit learning that had taken place in school. One child said: 'this is the best day ever!' - Teacher

Key details:

  • Half day sessions are 2 hours long for up to 30 children
  • Visits are free to schools based in Wigan borough
  • You can combine a half-day session with a visit to Archives: Wigan and Leigh (located just across the square in Leigh Town Hall) or Leigh Library.
  • Contact theturnpikegallery@wigan.gov.uk for more information and to book a visit

Drumcroon Schools Loan Scheme

Drumcroon Education Art Centre in Wigan gained national acclaim for its role in visual arts education. We are delighted to make available to schools selected artworks from the Drumcroon Collection for temporary loan. Each newly framed work has information about the artist, media and key themes as starting points for activities with learners in the classroom. Teachers are invited to select up to 3 works at a time to loan for a period of half a term. For more details and how to book artworks, go to Drumcroon Schools Loan Scheme.