Common Wealth is launching Off the Curriculum, from its Common Space building on John Street, which it says follows a wave of teacher strikes across the UK.
It will run from Saturday March 18 to Sunday March 19 and program co-creator Noor Jahangir says it will help young people express themselves beyond the classroom.
“Many agree that school restricts our creativity, and Off the Curriculum gives us a chance to express ourselves in ways that school cannot,” he said.
“I think the school is limited in what it teaches.
“That’s why Off the Curriculum and its goals are essential, because they recognize how little we don’t know about some things, even if we need to know them or want to know more.”
Some of the topics covered in the program – suggested by young people – include capitalism, self-care, climate change, graffiti, pottery and den building.
A “new parliament”, which will see young people debate ideas and “take back control” of their education, as Common Wealth puts it, will also be part of the initiative.
The public is invited to discover the Common Space’s multi-sensory rooms, including a Kurdish lounge, the depths of the sea and the “Great Wall of Zimbabwe”, designed by young co-creators and built by professional scenographers.
Common Wealth director Evie Manning added: “How often do we let children and young people let their imaginations run wild? Off the Curriculum shows the potential of children and young people and what happens when they are given permission to dream, play and think big ideas.
“It brings young people’s ideas to life and shows them transformed into reality on an impressive scale.
“The weekend will be really fun and will feature works created by young people for people of all ages, adults and families.”
Producer May McQuade also said: “We thought about how much of our lives were spent in school and ideas about how formal education could be more extensive.
“You learn so much from your friends, your family, your online connections and also your community.
“It’s a celebration of curious minds in a complicated world – almost a revolution in a wacky warehouse.”
The program will take place between 12:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday and participation is free.
