Black History Month – Carnival history and creative learning experiences workshops available for schools

As part of Black History Month 2025, schools are invited to take part in a series of workshops exploring the history and creativity of Notting Hill and Acton Carnival.

These activities will give children and young people the opportunity to experience the artistry, music, costume making, and dance of Carnival within its historical and cultural context.

Creative learning activities available

Workshops are based on the three core Carnival art forms, Mas, Music and Movement. Sessions can include:

• Decorative techniques, costume making and street makeup
• Caribbean dances (folk, traditional and modern)
• Music composition and writing Calypso lyrics (subject to tutor availability)

All sessions are delivered by experienced Carnival creatives and tailored to the age group. Workshops use recycled and waste materials wherever possible.

Additional resources for schools

• Lost at Carnival – a KS1–2 publication to support classroom activities. Copies available at a discounted price of £5 per student.
• Carnival Arts Programme – six units of learning materials, available free to schools to support teaching in class.
• Groundings & Gayelles – discussions, lectures and studio debates around the arts, delivered in a Gayelle (a public space for display, competition and debate).

Costs

• 1 hour session – £100
• Half day – £250
• Full day – £400 (based on one tutor or curator)

Contact and booking

To discuss options and tailor sessions for your school, please contact:
Tony Charles – tonycharles1511@gmail.com
Ansel Wong – tsingtax@gmail.com / elimuband@gmail.com