National Portrait Gallery

On the face of it

The National Portrait Gallery is a cultural institution where students will discover a veritable roll call of remarkable Australians we are variously inspired, moved, perplexed and delighted by.

Come and experience our student-centred and interactive educational programs, led by professional Learning Facilitators.

Portrait School programs - focussed on learning through discussion, visual analysis, drawing and creative activities. The content is cross-curricular in nature, with a choice of focus areas on offer: Visual Art; History; English; Civics and Citizenship; and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Activism. We also offer Visual Thinking Strategies, a critical thinking and visual literacy program for all levels of education.

Virtual Excursions and learning programs are available in your classroom via several live video platforms. Fully interactive sessions with Gallery staff let you explore the National Portrait Gallery Collection in real-time learning programs aligned with the Australian Curriculum. Find out more at portrait.gov.au/content/virtual excursions.

Headhunt@Home is an interactive app designed to encourage children aged 5–15 to take the lead and independently explore the virtual Portrait Gallery, to look closely at the portraits that intrigue them, to investigate the artistic elements of the work and learn about the incredible stories of the people featured. To use at home or in school. Headhunt@Home is available for download from the Apple App Store.

Things to know

Online learning resources are available for use in the classroom. Go to portrait.gov.au to discover these resources.

Education newsletters allow you to stay in touch with the Gallery’s education and exhibition programs. Subscribe at portrait.gov.au.

Call or email our bookings officer to book now.

Visit guidelines have been developed in line with ACT Government COVID-19 recommendations and our conditions of entry are available online.