Young People’s Programme at the British Museum

We’re excited to share details of the new Young People’s Programme at the British Museum. This initiative is centred on creating space for discussion, critical thinking and creativity, and on supporting young people to develop skills, platform their work and build a sense of belonging in the museum.
Our priority is to work with young people aged 16–24 who might not usually access the museum, and we are particularly keen to partner with charities, community organisations and education providers who support them. Organisations working with these audiences can be added to our Key Groups list, meaning you will be prioritised for future opportunities and offers. 
Digital Artist Cohort (Ages 18–24)
April – November | Applications open until 18 March
This project is all about young people experimenting with emerging technologies as creative tools, using the museum as raw material and a space to test ideas.
Across several months, the cohort will work closely with four established digital artists, exploring a range of practices including 3D modelling and scanning, image mapping, XR, generative technologies, creative coding, physical computing and more. Participants will gain behind-the-scenes access to the museum, engaging with the collection in unexpected ways and transforming it into new, original work.
You don’t need any previous experience with these technologies — just curiosity, imagination and an interest in making art in a collaborative, supportive environment with other young creatives.
London travel and refreshments are provided.
Apply here: Digital Cohort- The British Museum - Application form – Fill in form 
Free Young People’s Arts Workshops (Ages 16–24)
We are now taking bookings for free, two-hour creative workshops for groups.
These sessions:
  • Combine gallery exploration with hands-on making in our studio
  • Are welcoming, flexible and collaborative
  • Can be tailored to different interests and access needs
  • Can take place on weekdays or weekends, at the museum or off-site within London. 
Choose from these sessions:
🎭 Exploring Power and Sculpture
Get hands-on with materials while talking about power, storytelling and how objects communicate ideas.
✍️ Poetry: Looking Closely
Slow down, look closely and write creatively in response to objects, histories and personal experiences.
✂️ Zine Making: Your Voice
Cut, collage and create your own zine — exploring opinion, expression and visual storytelling.
✏️ Sketch Wildly: Experimental Drawing
Loose, playful drawing inspired by objects, movement and mark-making. No drawing experience needed!
Book here: Young People’s Arts Workshops – The British Museum Young Peoples Arts Workshops - Booking Form - The British Museum – Fill in form 
Young Poets Programme (Ages 16–24)
Final week to apply
This free creative development programme brings together a cohort of young people to explore poetry and creative writing in response to the collection. Through guided workshops, participants will build confidence, critical thinking and self-expression, culminating in a live celebration event where they share their work.
We would be very grateful if you could share this opportunity with young people in your networks.
Apply here: Young Poets Programme at The British Museum 2026 - Application – Fill in form
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