Learning

Somerset House's Learning and Participation programme connects our cultural programme, history and resident creative community to a diverse audience of over 6,000 every year.

We offer a wide-range of events and projects for different audiences including families, community groups, students and young people that draw on the rich cultural content and creative talent available at Somerset House.

Families

Somerset House is a popular space for families, especially with the fountains in the summer months. We host a series of events based around families creating together, much of it free. Our monthly free family drop-in workshops run by illustrators, artists, educators and makers look at the current themes or exhibitions being explored in our cultural programme, in a way accessible to a range of ages. We offer the opportunity to learn new creative techniques, pose different questions and explore new themes together.

Young People

We also run frequent events exclusively for young people, from analytical workshops exploring contemporary themes to skills based workshops and practical sessions. Our young people’s programme aims to provide an affordable rewarding experience for both those pursuing studies and careers in the creative industry and those with less formally developed interests. We work closely with external organisations, in house tenants and increasingly the artist community as part of Somerset House Studios to build a unique programme shaped by our collaborators and those who participate.

Schools, Colleges & Universities

Somerset House offer schools, colleges and universities sustained learning programmes, workshops, site visits, talks and events, catering to a variety of audiences, age groups and interests. With a specialism in Art & Design, our cross-curricular activities focus on developing creative skills.

The majority of our exhibitions are suitable for all ages and for our larger scale exhibitions we offer free educational tours and Tutors Twilight introductory events.

To book an exhibition tour or if would like more information about our Tutors Twilight events please contact LearningBookings@somersethouse.org.uk

For further information on booking a group visit contact GroupBookings@somersethouse.org.uk

Communities & Groups

We work closely with a number of groups, charities and organisations on projects that open up our building and cultural programme to new audiences including those less familiar with cultural venues. We run exhibition tours and bespoke workshops aiming to inspire personal development through making, creating and discussion. By exploring our cultural programme and offering a look behind the scenes we try to expand the conversation around art and broader culture as well as presenting the variety of creative and career opportunities within the arts.