Learning at the Horniman

Discover how the Horniman uses object-based learning and enquiry led approaches to facilitate a huge range of learning audiences.

Try out techniques yourself using our objects, and explore our incredible Hands on Base. This session is particularly suitable for HE or CPD groups studying learning or museums, but can be tailored to your topic – please contact us to discuss.

Learning Objectives:

  • Pupils will be able to simply describe the history of the Horniman Museum and Gardens
  • Pupils will be able to describe the Horniman’s approach to learning
  • Pupils will understand how enquiry-based learning methods can be applied with a range of programmes and audiences

Please note that our Natural History Gallery is now closed for redevelopment and will reopen in late 2026. The rest of our Galleries, displays, Aquarium and Gardens will be open as usual, with plenty across the site to support your topic (from our free Animal Walk, to our World Gallery). Our schools workshops are unaffected.

Our new, free Natural History Pop Up exhibition is open until May 2026.

Workshop information

How to book

Booking a taught session includes a welcome briefing on arrival, timed access to a lunch space, cloakroom facilities and access to toilets for the exclusive use of school groups.

Contact us to make a booking:
schools@horniman.ac.uk
020 8291 8686

When you contact us please have ready:

– the name of the taught session you would like to book or topic you are studying,

-1st/2nd/3rd choice of date and preferred session time,

– the number of pupils and adults attending.

Costs

Entrance to the Horniman Museum and Gardens is free of charge. Taught sessions and access to some exhibitions are charged for. We invoice before your visit.

The following charges apply:

Mainstream State schools: £100 including VAT, £83.33 excluding VAT

Private/independent schools: £140 including VAT, £116.67 excluding VAT

SEND schools and groups: £50 including VAT, £41.67 excluding VAT

We offer a bursary scheme for schools that meet a set criteria.

Planning your visit

See the School Trips page for other essential information including our risk assessment.

We are open from 10am–5.30pm. Entrance to the Museum and Gardens is free of charge.

We offer reduced educational rates for our Aquarium, Butterfly House, and Temporary exhibition. See the School Trips page for further information.

Charges apply to all children aged 3 years and over, and all accompanying teachers and adults, unless they are specific 1:1 carers.