GLENCOE FOLK MuSEuM eDucationaL anD Fun For aLL aGes
It has been an exciting time for Glencoe Folk Museum recently as it is in the midst of a redevelopment project with design work rapidly advancing behind the scenes on its £1.3m lottery-funded redevelopment. This is scheduled to open in 2023 and will be a vibrant attraction fit for the 21st century, while still retaining the traditional look and much-loved charm of the original. As part of the overall project, a new role, Learning and Engagement Officer, was established to engage with the community and visitors to the museum, Parris Joyce being appointed at the end of last year. A museum education professional who previously worked in a similar role at Robert Burns’ Birthplace Museum, she has been visiting schools to do talks with classes of all ages and showing them interesting objects. A Lochaber axe, Targe shield, chamber pot and rabbit foot brooch are some of the items children have seen and
been allowed to handle. So far she has connected with teachers and pupils at Glencoe primary, St Bride’s primary and Kinlochleven primary, with both classes at Glencoe following this up with a visit to the museum for a tour and various activities. Big hits among the children included the gas mask within the conflict display case; the coffin boat used to ferry the dead to Eilean Munde in Loch Leven and the taxidermy, especially the wildcat. She would love to involve even more schools across Lochaber, especially before the museum shuts to undergo big changes, so is urging schools throughout the area to get in touch in the new school year. All pupils and teachers have thoroughly enjoyed the
museum ‘experience’, both for the educational value and fun, not to mention taking the opportunity to explore a little gem on their doorsteps. Other local groups and organisations are also welcome to take part as it is not limited to children as Parris is able and willing to tailor activities for adults, to encourage lifelong learning through the museum’s objects and stories which can provide endless amounts of inspiration for creative activities. To find out more, email learning@glencoemuseum.com as Parris is enthusiastic to get as many local people connected with their local heritage and would love to hear from you.
lOCHABER lIFE
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