Young Curators Programme

Be curious with collections, explore local history and gain hands-on museum experience.

Are you aged 16 to 21 and curious about museums, history or creative careers? Our Young People Programme is your chance to get involved behind the scenes at The Bowes Museum.

Gain experience working in a museum, develop valuable skills and help to tell new stories about the past, present and future through creative workshops, collaborative projects, and expert-led sessions.

Through hands-on workshops, collaborative projects and expert-led sessions you’ll gain real experience working in a museum, develop valuable skills and help tell new stories about the past, present and future.

The programme runs one Saturday a month from March to December 2025, 10:00–3:30. Lunch is provided.

THIS YEAR’S FOCUS: TRACKS THROUGH TIME

In 2025, we’re marking 200 years since the first journey on the Stockton and Darlington Railway. As part of this year’s programme, you’ll explore the museum’s collection in relation to the historical and cultural impact of this world-changing moment.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO

Curate your own mini exhibition in The Hive.

Build your own “mini museum in a suitcase” and develop practical curatorial skills.

Visit other museums – go behind the scenes at partner museums across County Durham.

Share your voice through co-designing and writing interpretation for the museum’s Conversation Wall and take part in Heritage Open Day 2025 on Saturday 13th.  

Work with experts – Join workshops led by curators, historians and creatives, including Dr. Felicia Gottman (Northumbria University) on collecting and migration and Ph.D researchers exploring local stories and community heritage.

Grow your confidence – Learn to speak publicly about your ideas and work as part of a team.

WHY GET INVOLVED?

  • Meet like-minded people
  • Represent young voices
  • Build confidence and skills
  • Boost your CV and university applications with practical experience
  • Make a real impact in a nationally-renowned museum.

INTERESTED?

To apply, simply download and complete an application form, then email it to learn@thebowesmuseum.org.uk.

Download the Application Form

WHERE CAN IT TAKE YOU?

Some of our past Young Curators have gone on to do amazing things, including:

  • Studying Fashion at Westminster University
  • Completing an MA in Museum Studies at Newcastle University
  • Working at the Royal Opera House in Sunderland
  • Working at the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) in London

Apply today and see where the Young Curator’s programme could take you.