Planning your visit will enhance the experience for both your students and the staff that accompany them. The following notes are intended as a guide and should you have any questions, we would be happy to try and answer them for you.
If you wish you may visit us (without charge) at The National Museum of Computing in advance of bringing your group. We would be happy to show you around and discuss your requirements.
What can we see at The National Museum of Computing?
Remember that the Museum is of ‘computing’ not just ‘computers’. So, whilst you will see many computers there are plenty of opportunities to learn about; software, the application a computer was put to and the people that were involved in the development or use of the computer. Explore our website to find out more about the exhibits in the Museum. Check out the notes here for more information about our exhibits and how they relate to the curriculum.
When can I book a visit for my students to The National Museum of Computing?
You can bring a group to the Museum on any weekday by prior arrangement through our booking process. Book in plenty of time however as we do get many bookings from schools, colleges and universities.
How many young people can I bring and what ages are permitted?
The Museum is best enjoyed by young people aged 7 and above and we accept groups of up to 40 students. The National Museum of Computing is hosted in a listed building but provides wheelchair access to all areas. Click here to find out more.
Does the Museum have any meeting rooms we can use?
Yes we have two rooms that can be used by groups of students to work or have their packed lunches. Click here to see our accommodation.
Is there a place where students can buy food and sit down to eat?
We strongly advise students to bring a packed lunch which they can eat in the meeting room. The Museum has a small cafe and seating area serving hot drinks, ice cream and chocolate.
What should students bring with them?
The Museum offers access to a lot of information and what students record is of course up them and the teacher directing their study. However, we would recommend pen and paper of course. The Museum permits students to bring and use a camera to help record their exploration of the Museum.
Sometimes the Museum will be open to the public whilst your group is visiting and therefore students must be encouraged to look after their valuables at all times. If you wish to see parts of Bletchley Park beyond the Museum we would recommend outdoor coats depending upon the weather.
Is the Museum easy to find and is there parking for coaches and cars close by?
You can locate the Museum using the directions provided on the main TNMOC website here. Coaches and cars can enter Bletchley Park by arrangement and park right outside the Museum.
How much does it cost to bring my students to The National Museum of Computing?
The charges for students of different ages and adults that accompany them are all provided here.
How do I book a visit to The National Museum of Computing?
Go here to download our booking forms and send them by email or post to Lin Jones, the TNMOC Operations Manager.
Do students need to prepare for their visit?
We think that students who prepare for the visit get very much more from their experience. As a Museum with rare and valuable artefacts we expect all our student visitors to behave appropriately, respecting the Museum, our staff and volunteers, other visitors and of course each other. We have added some notes here to suggest some ideas for preparation.
Are there activities that students can undertake after their visit?
Yes of course. We would hope that the visit sparks their interest to reflect, discuss and report what they found. You are welcome to send us a copy of what they have constructed as an outcome of their visit to The National Museum of Computing. We have noted some ideas here.