The Burrell Collection is full of beautiful objects from all over the world. Children can discover Chinese and Ancient Egyptian treasures, Islamic and Christian art, textiles and armour, and paintings by major European artists. The museum and its parkland setting create an inspiring environment for learning and creativity.

The Burrell regularly hosts temporary exhibitions, and runs an extensive programme of events and activities for school, adults and families with children.

ANIMAL EXPLORERS

Early Level, Pre-5s

Animal Explorers is a fun introduction to the amazing range of animals you can find at the Burrell Collection. Children will handle real animal objects and use role play to discover the animal kingdom around them.

CHINESE NEW YEAR

Early Level, Pre-5s (Available January to March)

Come and join us in our pagoda. Children will learn about Chinese New Year by looking at the amazing objects in our galleries. They will take part in a traditional Chinese dance and go on an exciting dragon hunt!

TALES OF THE CASTLE

Early Level, Pre-5s

An interactive storytelling session inspired by the princes, princesses, knights and castles waiting to be discovered among the Burrell’s medieval tapestries and armour.

CHINESE NEW YEAR

Early Level, Primary 1, First Level, Primary 2–3 (Available January to March)

Come and join us in our pagoda. Children will learn about Chinese New Year by looking at the amazing objects in our galleries. They will take part in a traditional Chinese dance and go on an exciting dragon hunt!

CHANGING MATERIALS

Early Level, Primary 1, First Level, Primary 2–4

Children will explore the galleries and look at materials used by artists, such as stone, clay and wood. They will then take part in hands on activities to understand how the different properties of these materials are exploited to create works of art.

DEGAS’S ART

Early Level, Primary 1, First / Second Level, Primary 2–7

Children will study paintings and drawings by Edgar Degas – looking at his use of colour, texture and shape. They will then experiment with pastels and large-scale drawing. Older children will learn about the artist’s life and his links with the Impressionists.

ANCIENT EGYPT

First / Second Level, Primary 2–7

Pupils will use active learning to discover the mysteries of Ancient Egypt. They will find out about Egyptian life and afterlife, gods and goddesses and hieroglyphics. This session includes opportunities to handle real Ancient Egyptian objects.

KNIGHTS AND CASTLES: MEET SIR HUGO

First / Second Level -, Primary 2–7

This workshop introduces children to Sir Hugo, the best medieval knight in Scotland.

Dressed for battle, Sir Hugo will take your class on a journey back to the time of knights and castles. There will also be the opportunity to examine the Burrell’s amazing arms and armour.

CHINA

Second Level, Primary 5–7

The Burrell’s amazing Chinese collection is the focus for an active-learning session investigating Chinese culture. Learners will develop their team-work and research skills before delivering a short museum tour.

HISTORY DETECTIVES

Second Level, Primary 5–7

How do we know what it was like to live in ancient times? Learners will use objects from around the world to discover how people may have lived in the distant past, and are introduced to the idea of evidence. The inclusion of a short drama session encourages classes to bring history to life.

RESPONSIBLE CITIZENS?

Second Level, Primary 5–7

This workshop gives pupils an opportunity to discover democracy through the world of Ancient Greece. They will explore responsible citizenship and become involved in discussion and debate about a real ancient Athenian dilemma.

SCOTTISH SKILLS: WEAVING

Second Level, Primary 5–7

Discover the world of traditional crafts behind the Burrell’s amazing textiles. Children will explore natural Scottish dyes and fabrics, try combing and spinning wool, and have a go at weaving the old-fashioned way on our handlooms.

CHINESE CERAMICS

Third Level, Secondary 1–3

Pupils will look at wonderful Chinese ceramics, learn about their history and draw some of the objects. Then, taking inspiration from the collection, they will also make a ceramic piece to take away (to be fired and glazed back at school).

TEXTILES: BACK TO BASICS

Third Level, Secondary 1–3

In this session learners will delve deep into the world of fabrics and textiles. They will discover how 15th-century tapestries were made and explore the intricacies of 17th-century embroidery.

They can then try their hand at one of three practical activities: weaving, embroidery or felt making (please state your preference when booking).

IMPRESSIONISM – A CRITICAL STUDY

Senior Phase, Secondary 4–6

This session provides an opportunity for young people to apply a critical approach to

Impressionist art, analyse different artworks and express their opinions. They will use visual literacy skills and learn ways of discussing art, and then focus on Degas’s figure composition.