LONDON.- On 15 September Museum of London will open its new state-of-the-art Clore Learning Centre, with iPods, PSPs (PlayStation Portables) and iPhones just some of the latest technology on offer to visitors. The Museum is leading the way with a full range of e-learning facilities available on site mixing digital technology with more traditional approaches such as object handling and role play – and all school sessions are now free!

The Centre, supported by the Clore Duffield Foundation, the Heritage Lottery Fund and others, will comprise a series of multi-purpose activity spaces, a fully equipped e-learning studio and a 230-seat theatre. It will cater for the Museum’s full range of learners - during the day in term-time the centre will be a resource for schools and colleges, with free education sessions for primary and secondary school groups. In the evenings it will serve as a place for adult learning, and at weekends and during school holidays it will host events for families and be a venue for community groups.

The new technology will allow students to explore history 21st century style. Learners will be able to take photographs of the Museum’s objects and transform them into a creative animation; or use an iPod or PSP to go on a gallery tour, recording information through photography or sound recording. Using the latest blue screen technology pupils will be able to see themselves dressed up in replica Roman costumes and then transfer their images on to pictures of Roman pots or mosaics.

This modern technology will be combined with the opportunity to work with archaeologists, enjoy storytelling events, drama and theatre performances and handle historic objects. Activities cover the spectrum of historic periods, from pre-history to today and cater for learners of all ages and abilities, from under-fives to adults attending evening classes. The space has been designed to be engaging, vibrant and inclusive – with children from local Prior Weston Primary School co-curating a display of modern day interpretations of historic costumes and toys.

Professor Jack Lohman, Director of Museum of London, says ‘The Museum’s education spaces were pioneering when they were first installed in 1976 and these new facilities mean that Museum of London will once again be a leader in Museum learning. We are especially pleased to be able to offer free sessions for school students.’

The new Clore Learning Centre is just part of a massive makeover at the Museum of London. Spectacular new galleries will open in spring 2010 to reveal the results of its biggest transformation since opening. Three years in the making, the £20 million redevelopment project will retell the story of modern London and Londoners from 1666 to the present and offer an entirely new experience for visitors old and new.