Not just pumpkins: half term at MERL
Wednesday, 20 October 2010
'Our workshops are designed for the whole family to come along and learn something new!'
Children can make scary pumpkin lanterns, decorate pots and make impressions from Autumn textures at the Museum of English Rural Life (MERL) during half term.
The museum, which is owned and managed by the University, is offering four fun family workshops inspired by its beautiful garden.
The first two workshops are suitable for families with children two years and upwards.
Potty Plants
On Tuesday 26 October, families can drop in to decorate a pot, and plant an Autumn bulb to take home.
Going on a nature hunt
On Wednesday 27th, families can venture into the MERL garden to hunt for Autumn textures and patterns to make impressive impressions with former artist in residence, Julie Roberts.
Photo fun: workshop inspired by our exhibition 'A circle and a century'
Julie returns on Thursday 28th for some creative photography inspired by ‘A circle and a century' the current exhibition of panoramic photographs of Reading from the 1890s and today. Julie will help the group take pictures of the surroundings and create dramatic photo collages. This workshop is suitable for families with children aged 6+ and booking is required.
Perfect pumpkins
And October half term would not be complete without a Halloween workshop, so drop in with a pumpkin on Friday 29th and staff will provide all the help and equipment you need to create a scary lantern!
Bekky Moran, Learning Manager at MERL, said: "Our workshops are designed for the whole family to come along and learn something new! Families are welcome spend the day here, trying out a workshop or having a go at some of the other activities that are always available in the Museum, such as the ‘Relic Trail'. We've even put up our marquee in the garden to provide a sheltered picnic spot - and families are also welcome in the new University café - Eat and Drink at London Road - next door!"
Admission to the Museum is free. Workshops cost between £2 and £4 per child. For full details of the events please visit the holiday events pages on the MERL website or call 0118 378 8660 or email merlevents@reading.ac.uk