Making it Work

Making it Work is an organisation based at the Museum of Reading. Its aim is to encourage the practical applications of craft - the design and making of artefacts through the development of appropriate intellectual, creative and practical skills - at all levels of education. It also aims to broaden public perceptions of craft, including both the products that we use and the environment in which we live.

The objectives of Making it Work will be achieved through the following:

• Innovative and practical teaching projects
• Didactic and interactive exhibitions
• Outreach programmes
• Active dissemination

Making it Work was established as a response to two reports - 'Pupils as Makers' and 'Learning Through Making' - published by the Crafts Council in 1998. Both emphasised the importance and enjoyment of craft education across the curriculum, but also pointed out that since the implementation of the National Curriculum severe time constraints have compromised making skills.

The reports also highlighted a decline of resources in craft education - financial and technical, as well as a lack of continuing professional development for the practical application of craft. ACE SE also recognise that, over the last five years, there has been an alarming decrease in the number of craft activities led by practising craftspeople working in partnership with teachers at all four Key Stages.

Making it Work aims to address these issues - and to revitalise craft education, by strengthening links between craftspeople, schools and a variety of art venues.

Making it Work was initiated by ACE SE and is now set up in partnership with Reading Museum Service, the University of Reading and the National Society for Education in Art and Design. The Director, based at the Museum of Reading, is Lesley Butterworth.

Visit the website at: www.makingitwork.org.uk.

Making it Work has been sponsored by: