Primary Art School

A range of playful and practical artist-led workshops for KS1 and KS2 pupils.

Designed especially for KS1 and KS2 pupils, these imaginative and innovative sessions encourage experimentation and creativity across our galleries, inside and out.   

We have a diverse network of artists and creatives skilled in a wide range of practices. Popular sessions include drawing, printmaking, performance, textiles and digital techniques such as animation and even the Whitworth Minecraft. 

‘It was great to see such interest and fun in the activities. There was so much that the staff can now use in the classroom. It was a great day!’ – Primary teacher 

Sessions are two hours long and cost £160. To book, email steven.roper@manchester.ac.uk with three preferred dates and your workshop of choice.    

Choose one from the following:    

Draw

This playful, hands-on workshop encourages your pupils to express what they think, feel and see through drawing – just like the artists in our collection. Explore a range of drawing techniques in a variety of media and understand how sketchbooks support artistic practice.

Make

Learn how artists, architects and makers build, shape and create. Working alongside a professional artist-maker, pupils will learn new practical art skills and ways to communicate their ideas. Choose from printmaking, textiles or 3D modelling.    

Digital

From pencil to pixel, develop IT skills and explore the gallery through digital technologies. Choose from Minecraft, animation and photography. 

Express

The gallery is a rich visual stimulus that can help to generate ideas, inspire creativity and encourage expression. Working with performers, pupils will learn to express themselves within their chosen art form – choosing from dance, spoken word, creative writing or climate.  

The workshop aims to encourage all pupils to participate and work together in teams, before showcasing their work in a final mini performance in the gallery.