Junior Open House

Annual Architecture Programme for primary schools: Spring and Summer Term

Architecture and the built environment is something that has an impact on all our daily lives but it is the one thing we generally don’t learn about.  Open House has been delivering architecture education programmes for over 10 years and works with 3,000 young people a year. All of our education programmes are FREE to schools and draw on our experience as a leader in the field of architecture education.

If you are a primary school teacher and would like your school to take part in Junior Open House 2010 please contact: Ros Croker, Schools Programme Coordinator, by email or phone on 020 7383 5722

The 2010 programme

Junior Open House is a comprehensive and packed programme for primary school students in year 5 and 6 (8-11 year olds). The programme brings students into contact with key pieces of exemplary London architecture. Building explorations encourage young people to become ‘architectives’, to look for clues, learn design skills and see ways in which people use space. This direct experience leads on to creative workshops in the classroom.

The theme for the 2010 programme will be eco-design.

2010 programme outline - SIGN UP YOUR CLASS NOW TO TAKE PART!

Step 1: Evening Training Seminars: 23 March, 24 March, 25 March 2010
A key part of the Open Up programme, teachers and architects receive practical help and advice to prepare for the building explorations and workshops, and have the opportunity to meet and discuss ideas with others taking part in the programme. All participants are required to attend one of the training seminars - you do not need to attend all three seminars.

Step 2: Introducing the brief in class: week of 19 - 23 April
Your partner Open House Education Volunteer will come into your class for one short session to introduce the brief to your pupils and help them begin their investigations into eco-design.

Step 3: Building explorations: one half day week of 17 - 21 May
Each class will explore one of London's exciting buildings - this visit will be led by their partner architect and the building's representative, and supported by the Education Volunteer. Open House provides on-site activities and resources; architects are also encouraged to develop additional materials specific to their partner class.

Step 4: Evening model-making training: 25 May (optional)
All teachers, architects and volunteers are invited to develop their model-making skills to use with pupils back in the class, in a hands-on workshop.

Step 5: Classroom workshop: one half day week of 24 - 28 May or 7 - 11 June
Architects and Education Volunteers will go into their partner schools and help pupils develop their ideas and prepare their competition entries.

Step 6: Awards competition: deadline 23 June, prize-giving 14 July
At the end of the project, pupils are invited to submit their work to the Junior Open House Awards competition. Winners will be announced, receive prizes and have their work exhibited at a prestigious late-afternoon reception - all participants are invited to attend. Awards will also be given for Teacher of the Year, Architect of the Year and Education Volunteer of the Year.

 

 

 

 

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