Unlock the Museum: A Puzzle Adventure

Please note: Timings are subject to change and are only indicative of the session. 

Introduction (15 minutes): Introduction to the session and test puzzle to solve with Learning Communicator. Class will then be split into three groups.  

Rotational activities (45 minutes): Within their groups pupils will rotate around three different museum galleries, solving a puzzle in each space before moving on to the next. Each rotation will last approximately 15 minutes. 

Conclusion and Wrap Up (15 minutes):  The groups will come together and return to the learning studios to complete the final puzzle as a class. There will be the opportunity for a class photo.  The Learning Communicators will congratulate the class and say goodbye.  

Mon 14 Dec 2026 - 10:15 and 12:15

Tue 15 Dec 2026 - 10:15 and 12:15

Wed 16 Dec 2026 - 10:15 and 12:15

Thu 17 Dec 2026 - 10:15 and 12:15

Fri 18 Dec 2026 - 10:15 and 12:15

Wed 31 Mar 2027 - 10:15 and 12:15

Thu 1 Apr 2027 - 10:15 and 12:15

Wed 23 Jun 2027 - 10:15 and 12:15

Thu 24 Jun 2027 - 10:15 and 12:15

Mon 28 Jun 2027 - 10:15 and 12:15

Tue 29 Jun 20927 - 10:15 and 12:15

• Scottish State schools should raise a Purchase Order through their Local Authority procurement system for the cost of charged sessions.  Purchase Order numbers should be notified to schools@nms.ac.uk at least 7 days in advance of the visit. 
• Independent Schools will be invoiced after the visit.  Payment terms are 15 days from date of invoice. 

• National Museums Scotland reserve the right to charge a fee for short notice cancellations or no-shows.  
• Bookings cancelled less than 3 weeks prior to the visit will incur an administration fee of 50% of the value of chargeable events.  
• Bookings cancelled less than 2 weeks prior to the visit will incur an administration fee of 100% of the value of chargeable events.  
• A charge of 100% of the value of booked sessions will apply to no-show or last-minute cancellations. 
• In certain circumstances National Museums Scotland may waive the administration fee. 
• Cancellations should be notified in writing to schools@nms.ac.uk.

National Museums Scotland (NMS) Free Workshop Policy: Terms and Conditions 

Eligibility and Access Policy for Free Workshops 

As part of our commitment to inclusive education and community engagement, National Museums Scotland (NMS) is pleased to offer 20% of our educational workshops free of charge to schools located in areas designated as SIMD 1 and 2, based on the Scottish Government's Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation (SIMD). The following terms and conditions apply: 

Eligibility Criteria 

1. SIMD Designation: Schools must be located in areas classified as SIMD 1 or SIMD 2 (where at least 60% of pupils are also classified as SIMD 1 or 2) to qualify for free workshops.
2. Verification: Eligibility will be verified using the latest SIMD data provided by the Scottish Government. Schools may be required to provide documentation or additional information to confirm their eligibility. 

Workshop Availability 

1. Limited Slots: Free workshops are subject to availability, with 20% of our total workshop offerings reserved for eligible schools.
2. Exclusions: Please note that this offer only applies to workshops delivered by National Museums Scotland staff and excludes special events, study days and special exhibition visits.
3. Advance Booking: Schools are encouraged to book early to secure a place, as free workshop slots are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
4. Waiting List: In the event that all free workshop slots are filled, eligible schools can be placed on a waiting list and will be notified if a slot becomes available. 

Terms of Participation 

1. No Transport Cost Support: NMS does not provide financial support for transport costs. Schools are responsible for arranging and funding their own transportation to and from the museum.
2. Cancellations: Schools must notify NMS at least two weeks in advance if they need to cancel a booking. Repeated cancellations without adequate notice may affect future eligibility for free workshops.
3. Feedback: Participating schools may be asked to provide feedback on the workshops to help us improve our educational offerings. Participation in feedback activities is appreciated but not mandatory.
4. Class cap: Workshop offer is limited to 4 classes from a school for each school session. 

Application Process 

1. Application Form: Interested schools must complete the appropriate section in the booking request form.
2. Supporting Documents: Schools may need to submit supporting documents to verify their eligibility based on SIMD status.
3. Confirmation: Successful applicants will receive a confirmation email with details of their workshop booking. 

We are dedicated to making our educational resources accessible to all and look forward to welcoming eligible schools to National Museums Scotland. 

By participating in our workshops, schools agree to adhere to the above terms and conditions. NMS reserves the right to modify these terms and conditions at any time. 

July 2024