Learn at the MCA
– Schools & Teachers

MCA Learning programs connect students and teachers to contemporary art through innovative creative learning approaches. A range of programs incorporate different learning styles and multiple intelligences to explore exhibitions, artists’ practice and the art world both at the Museum and remotely through digital excursions.

Early Learning

The MCA offers an exciting program introducing contemporary art to pre-schoolers aged three to five years old, using play-based learning approaches.

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Primary Programs (K-6)

Programs for primary school students are designed to enhance art appreciation and art-making skills through discussion and practical activities.

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Secondary Programs (7-12)

The MCA provides theoretical and practical exhibition-linked programs for secondary students, relating to the NSW Visual Arts syllabus.

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English as a Second Language (ESL) Groups

ESL students can explore current exhibitions and the MCA collection on a guided Gallery Exploration led by MCA Artist Educators.

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Bella program for students with specific needs

Look, touch, listen and create in the Bella Program, a FREE art-making workshop for children and young people with specific needs, including physical, intellectual, emotional or behavioural disabilities.

Investigate contemporary artworks on Gallery Explorations of current exhibitions, then explore art-making processes and ideas in a practical session in the creative studios of the NCCL.

Discover the multi-sensory Bella Room, where Bella commission artists create interactive installations designed to engage and inspire people with specific needs to explore contemporary art through sensory experience.

Program details:
The Bella program is FREE for all participants and can be tailored to individual requirements.

Bella Sessions are offered every Monday during school term or at other times by special arrangement. Bookings are essential.*

Session Times: 10.00–11.30am or 12.30–2.00pm or by arrangement
Session Length: 60–90 minutes

Bookings: learning@mca.com.au or 02 9245 2400
TTY: 02 9241 6634

The MCA Bella program was established in 1993 through the generosity of MCA patrons, Dr Edward Jackson AM and Mrs Cynthia Jackson AM, and the Jackson family, in memory of their late daughter and sister Belinda.

Bella Room Commission:
Hiromi Tango, Dance, 2013
April 2013 – March 2014

*Please note that if a Bella session is cancelled with less than one week’s notice, the school will be charged for the cost of the program. Funding for the Bella Program is limited – reasonable notice of cancellation enables us to make your program available to others.

Also explore the Bella Room, the MCA’s space for students with specific learning needs.

Digital Excursions

Visit the MCA without leaving your classroom: video conferencing opens up a world of contemporary artists, artworks, Museum staff and experts.

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Teacher Programs

Access NSWIT endorsed professional development opportunities and develop your teaching skills though workshops and seminars. Network with education professionals, and meet artists and curators.

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MCA School Membership

Become and MCA School Member today! Members receive special benefits across the MCA, including discounts to programs, events and paid exhibitions, a subscription to Art Matters, the MCA magazine and a 10% discount at the MCA Store.

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Booking and Costs

Bookings are essential for all school groups visiting the MCA.
For information on how to book a school visit to the MCA, see our Booking for Schools page.

Learning Resources

Enhance your experience at MCA with a range of downloadable resource materials.

– See also

Planning your
visit – info,
tips & more Support for children with specific needs