The Shakespeare Birthplace Trust is an independent charity leading the world’s enjoyment and understanding of Shakespeare’s works, life and times. As well as opening and caring for five outstanding Tudor houses and gardens all directly connected to William Shakespeare, the Trust offers inspiring and awardwinning educational programmes, for schools from Early Years to A-Level, universities and the general public and makes available a library and archive of international importance.

“It was a fantastic day and the pupils (and staff!) loved it. Thank you!” AbbeyPark Middle School

“Thank you! The 2 days were wonderful. The children thoroughly enjoyed it, got a huge amount from it and we just couldn't teach our children that experience in a classroom.” AstwoodBank School

The Shakespeare Houses, Shakespeare’s Birthplace, Mary Arden’s Farm, Anne Hathaway’s Cottage, Hall’s Croft and Nash’s House, all situated in and around Stratford-upon-Avon, are entertaining and safe venues for educational visits.

The Trust is passionate about sharing their knowledge and enjoyment of Shakespeare with school students. Their resources are second to none: the most significant Shakespeare library in Europe, unique documents relating to Shakespeare’s life, the archives of the Royal Shakespeare Company, and the house where Shakespeare was born, grew up, and began to write. These resources have been used to create a unique range of workshops and talks and the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust promise you lively and interactive sessions of the highest quality that will be directly useful to your students' curricular and examination requirements, inspiring them and enhancing their experience of Shakespeare in memorable and rewarding ways.

The Early Years and Primary School programme includes half - day visits and activities as well as full day hands-on workshops such as Tudors Alive! where children become Tudors for a day. At Key Stage 3 and 4 the emphasis is on Shakespeare’s works and his dynamic use of language.

The Trust's A Level talks and courses have been designed to suit the needs of students working towards examinations set by OCR, AQA and Edexcel. They address the following assessment objectives, helping students appreciate:

• The relationship of their play to Shakespeare’s other work and to the theatre of his day.

• The influence upon texts of cultural, historical and other relevant contexts.

• Different critical interpretations and the importance of context

• The contribution of directors, designers and performers to the theatrical experience.

• How characters and ideas are conveyed through theatrical presentation.

The Education team are always available to discuss and help plan your visit to ensure you obtain the maximum benefit.

Key information

• EY – KS5
• Online learning resources
• Student Activity Packs available
• Hands-on, interactive activities
• Huge Shakespeare resource Library