Shakespeare’s Schoolroom puts volunteering opportunities on the school timetable

The opening to the public of Shakespeare’s Schoolroom and Guildhall from April 2016 is going to be an exciting cultural addition to Stratford-upon-Avon, and an occasion that will captivate the world with its rich heritage and many stories. One thing that will make the Schoolroom particularly special is the opportunity that it will give to local volunteers of all ages to play their role in bringing this unique building to life.

Project Lead for Shakespeare’s Schoolroom and Guildhall, Lincoln Clarke, says, “The restoration of this incredible building began in July 2015 and we are now at the stage where we can really start to get a sense of our completed project, with the aura of the building’s history palpable. Our next step is to welcome people of all ages who would like to become volunteers, with a wealth of varied opportunities available. For example, we want those at secondary schools to join us as part of the Duke of Edinburgh Scheme, there will be the chance to assist on the development and delivery of temporary exhibitions and we’ll be looking for those who want to be a part of the front of house experience. All the roles will enable volunteers to draw upon their own areas of expertise and interest, as well as presenting ways of learning new skills.”

Volunteer Open sessions will take place at King Edward VI School, Stratford-upon-Avon on Tuesday 12th January and Thursday 21st January between 5.30pm and 7.30pm. There will be a talk at 6.00pm on each evening to give details of the roles available, with members of the project team on hand to answer questions and give an insight into the project.

Thanks to National Lottery players, the much-anticipated opening of Shakespeare’s Schoolroom and Guildhall will take place in April 2016, 400 years after William Shakespeare’s death, giving access to where and how he spent his early school days, a period of his life which was to set him on his path to becoming the world’s most admired playwright.

A £1.4million restoration funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund has made the ambitious vision of the Trustees of King Edward VI School possible. Once completed this will be a heritage attraction of international significance featuring interactive displays, films and a Tudor classroom that recreates school life during Shakespeare’s time. It will also explore the building’s role as a medieval provincial Guildhall, where it sat at the heart of the town’s civic governance and life for over 400 years.