Introducing The Thomson Learning Centre

Sitting on the upper floor of the museum near our gallery spaces, The Thomson Learning Centre is a creative hub which will be the centre of our day-to-day activities at V&A Dundee.

The suite of world-class learning studios has been named The Thomson Learning Centre in recognition of the key support we’ve received from media company DC Thomson and the Thomson family. It comprises two fully equipped learning studios to deliver practical design workshops; an auditorium space which can accommodate more than 150 people; and a design residency studio connecting visitors to exciting contemporary designers.

Joanna Mawdsley, our Head of Learning, explains: “The Thomson Learning Centre is a superb space that will allow us to inspire and delight future generations, as well as encourage people of all ages to get involved in and be curious about design.”

These learning spaces will be the home of our Schools Programme, co-designed by teachers and delivered by practising designers, covering themes ranging from graphic design and illustration to fashion, digital design and architecture.

Inspired and influenced by our Scottish Design Galleries, exhibitions and architecture, regular weekend and holiday activities will take place in the studios, as well as workshops and activities for all ages.

Some of these include: Designbusters, a free drop-in activity for families centred around solving a global design problem together in a fun and original way. Toy Testers, a fun workshop for under-fives, gives children the chance to test and play with new toys from across with world. The Stitch-Up, a chance to reinvigorate an old piece of clothing and learn new skills with the help of a textile expert.

We will also offer a changing programme of free lunchtime talks hosted by curators, architects and designers, as well as a range of one-day workshops, ranging from brand and social media awareness for businesses to pattern cutting for beginners.

The continued support from DC Thomson and the Thomson family will help us become a leader in design education with an original and exciting learning programme that is open to everyone. We can’t wait to welcome you in September.