Book online at Book Canberra Excursions for:
We also offer two outreach programs for local schools only. For details email education@nma.gov.au
For help with booking changes, email bookings@nma.gov.au
Every object in the National Museum tells a story and our dynamic, curriculum-linked school programs bring these stories to life.
Bookings
Your visit
Schools booked for an education program are welcome to visit the Museum galleries, including First Australians and Great Southern Land, for up to an hour before or after their booked program. Note: Teachers must supervise students at all times.
Schools are welcome to enjoy recess or lunch in our Museum Forecourt or lakeside Amphitheatre.
Closures
Our Landmarks gallery is temporarily closed while we create a new space for more Australian stories. We continue to welcome school groups and all education programs are still being offered. The rest of the Museum, including our First Australians and Great Southern Land galleries, is open to explore before or after attending a booked education program.
Teacher-guided visits and Kspace are no longer available.
Visual story
Visual stories help with what to expect when you visit. Staff are here to help ensure you have a great experience.
- Download Visual story – School visits1.1 mb pdf [ PDF | 1.1 mb ]
Safety information
- Download Certificate of currency 2023–24185.9 kb pdf [ PDF | 185.9 kb ]
- Download Venue and safety information for school excursions 2022–23403.7 kb pdf [ PDF | 403.7 kb ]
The Museum has qualified first aid officers and a first aid room. Fire and emergency procedures are managed by trained staff and tested regularly. A warning will be activated in an emergency. All visitors will be given clear instructions from fire and safety wardens, who will supervise the evacuation of the building if necessary.
The Museum carries comprehensive public liability insurance cover.
All staff and volunteers working with children have undergone an Australian Federal Police security check and Working With Vulnerable People check.
Prior to their Museum visit all schools receive an email with important information about appropriate behaviour for students. This emphasises the fact that teachers have the duty of care for students when they are visiting the Museum and that all students should be in sight of a teacher or carer at all times.
The Museum has access facilities and wheelchairs available to visitors with special needs. Visitors require no special clothing or equipment.
Contact us
For detailed program information including availability and procedures:
Bookings Officer
Phone +61 2 6208 5345
Email bookings@nma.gov.au
Frequently asked questions
How much time should we spend at the Museum?
Schools visiting the Museum can spend up to an hour either side of their booked visit exploring our galleries. Teachers must supervise students at all times.
Lunch or recess in outdoor areas such as the the Museum Forecourt or lakeside Amphitheatre are welcome.
Is there a charge for school visits and programs?
Yes, costs apply. Please see program information for payment details.
Can students bring their bags into the Museum?
To protect the Museum’s collection, we do not allow backpacks, food or drink in our galleries. Please leave all school bags on the bus. If that is not possible, limited storage space is available. Water and medications may be carried into the galleries in small bags that are available from the Information Desk.
Can students take photographs in the Museum?
Cameras may be used in the galleries, however photography is not permitted in temporary exhibitions.
Is there anywhere to eat at the Museum?
There are many areas for students to eat recess and lunch, including the outside deck, lake foreshore and the Gandel Atrium during wet weather.
What facilities and services are there for people with disabilities?
We welcome all visitors and our accessibility services include hearing loops, free wheelchair hire, large print guides and more.
Does the Museum have a shop?
There is a gift shop in the Gandel Atrium, with many items that are affordable for most students.
What if I have another question?
- Email bookings@nma.gov.au or phone +61 2 6208 5345 for detailed program information including availability, procedures and making bookings for small groups of students
- Email education@nma.gov.au or phone +61 2 6208 5345 for other enquiries