About firstsite learning
firstsite learning aims to increase people’s enjoyment and understanding of contemporary art, making firstsite’s walls more permeable and the visitor’s journey into the new building, from school, home and street, a natural one.
firstsite learning is currently building on its past achievements by developing new and distinctive approaches to interpretation. The development and delivery of firstsite's Learning Programme is generously supported by the Paul Hamlyn Foundation Open Grants Scheme. Please click here to see the firstsite case study on the Paul Hamlyn Foundation website.
The programme is developing eight distinct strands, shaped to meet the needs of different audiences. They focus on:
- developing new learning initiatives through peer leadership and consultation with audience groups
- experimenting with new ways for children and adults to learn together
- equipping visitors with the tools to look at, engage with and understand contemporary art
- exploring the potential of new media and technologies to support learning within and away from firstsite:newsite
- encouraging conversations in firstsite:newsite as a new model of social space
- extending engagement through participation in international cultural debate
- evolving new methods to build capacity within the visual arts and support the professional development of artists and teachers
- building long-term, sustainable relationships with local communities
To broaden and enhance public access, the Learning Programme will work in collaboration with partners, including the University of Essex, Colchester Institute School of Art and Design and the Adult Learning College.
The firstsite learning centre will be at the heart of firstsite:newsite and housing two purpose-built Learning Studios, seminar space and resource space.
Please browse through the sections on the left to discover more about schools and firstsite or click on the Activities heading to find out about events and opportunities to get involved with firstsite learning.
