Opening Times

Half day sessions at Bolton Museum, Aquarium and Archive usually run between 10.00 and 11.45 or 13:00 and 14:45.

What makes this a great venue for School group Fun or Educational Visits?

Our sessions extend children's knowledge, understanding and enjoyment of Art, History and Science!


A range of exciting workshops are available at Bolton to provide dynamic learning experiences for your primary school class.

We offer interactive workshops at three fantastic venues:


Bolton Museum, Aquarium and Archive

Hall i’th’ Wood Museum
Smithills Hall

What are the activities?

Art - Portraits, Exhibition X Factor
History and Geography - Exploring Ancient Egypt, Toys, Global explorer
Science - Any Old Bones, Rock Around the Clock, Prehistoric
Early Years - Prehistoric
Please note these workshops are subject to change as plans are underway to redevelop Bolton Museum, Aquarium and Archive and this may affect some parts on the museum in 2010. Please contact our Education Administrator for the latest update.

What is the age range of the activities?

Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2

What materials to you provide or suggest groups bring to support the visit?

We provide all materials.

What are the minimum and maximum group sizes and the free Teacher Ratio?

There are a maximum number of 35 children per workshop. A minimum of 4 adults must accompany all primary school groups. A minimum of 2 adults must accompany all secondary groups.

Do you have or how do you arrange risk assessment?

A risk assessment for school visits has been completed by Bolton Museum and Archive Service. A copy is available on request.

What facilities are there for school groups for food and drink, shop etc?

Access
There is a passenger lift at the museum, which will take a single wheelchair as far as the main museum. One of the Museum Assistants will gladly assist people with mobility problems wishing to visit the “Wildlife on your Doorstep” gallery or the Aquarium. At present the only disabled access to these galleries is via the goods lift. Please let us know of your requirements prior to the visit.

Eating and Drinking
If your group is visiting for the whole day and you wish to eat on the premises, there is a room available between 12:00 and 14:00 for up to 35 people. Please book in advance.


Toilets
Accessible toilet facilities for wheelchair users are available. Please ask one of the Museum Assistants for the key. Male and female toilets are situated near to the Art Gallery. Children must be accompanied at all times.


Gift shops

We have an exciting range of museum souvenirs and replica artefacts to buy at pocket money prices.
We can also provide your class with £1.50 or £2.00 goody bags, filled with museum gifts (by prior arrangement)!

Is specific clothing required?

No

Do you have first aid on site?

Yes