Young Curators

Explore history, gain museum experience and celebrate 200 years of the Stockton & Darlington Railway.

The Bowes Museum is excited to announce the launch of its annual Young Curators Programme for individuals aged 16 to 21. This programme offers young people the opportunity to develop valuable skills, gain hands-on experience in a museum environment, and work on projects that explore local history and the surrounding landscape. 

This year, we are marking the 200th anniversary of the first journey on the Stockton and Darlington railway line. As part of the programme, Young Curators will have the opportunity to engage with this significant local event, drawing on The Bowes Museum’s collection to respond to its historical and cultural impact. 

PROGRAMME HIGHLIGHTS

Curating a display by taking over a museum case as part of the Young Curators exhibition.  

Visiting other museums in County Durham to explore their collections and gain further insight.  

Gaining first-hand experience with curators and collection teams at the museum.  

Contributing to the design, curation, and interpretation of the museum’s “Conversation Wall.”  

Building curation skills through hands-on activities such as creating “mini museums in a suitcase.”  

Enjoying workshops and talks with local history professionals. 

Participating in workshops with Felicia Gottman, Associate Professor at Northumbria University, focusing on object collection and migration.  

Collaborating with PhD students on local history and themes.  

Developing public speaking skills through activities on Heritage Open Day (Saturday 13 September 2025) .

Some of our past Young Curators have gone on to pursue exciting careers and further education, including: 

  • An undergrad in Fashion at Westminster University. 
  • An MA in Museum Studies from Newcastle University. 
  • Working at the Royal Opera House Sunderland. 
  • Securing a position at the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A). 

The programme will run monthly sessions on Saturdays, between March – December 2025 from 10:00 to 15:30, with lunch provided. Please apply using an online application form and send it to the learning team at learn@thebowesmuseum.org.uk 

Download the Application Form