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Funded Photography Workshops for State Schools
Sharp Shots delivers fully funded photography workshops for state schools in underserved urban communities across the UK. Our workshops take place in regional rural locations chosen for their cultural, wildlife and historical significance, giving pupils the opportunity to explore and connect with environments they may not otherwise experience.
Each workshop accommodates up to 30 students, with all cameras and equipment provided. In many cases, coach transport to and from the venue is also fully funded, helping to minimise costs for schools and ensuring accessibility for all pupils.
Our workshops offer a practical and engaging way to introduce children to the natural environment, encourage creativity and support wider curriculum learning. More than 3,000 young people have already benefited from the Sharp Shots approach to photography education.
What the workshops include:
- An introduction to the science of photography, including camera mechanics and how to use camera settings effectively
- A look at the history of photography and the work of influential photographers
- Practical photography sessions built around the workshop theme, allowing pupils to apply their new skills and techniques throughout the day
- The opportunity for each child to select and print their favourite image from the workshop, which can also be used for follow-on class activities such as art or creative writing projects
- Insight and instruction relating to the nature, wildlife and history of the workshops location
What we provide:
- A Nikon or Kodak waterproof and shockproof camera for every child aged 7–11 (up to 30 pupils)
- DSLR or bridge cameras for students aged 11–18 (up to 30 pupils)
- DBS-checked professional photographers and workshop leaders
- Instant printouts of each child’s favourite photograph using portable mini printers
- Educational insight into the location’s nature, wildlife and history, often delivered by specialist guest speakers
- Experienced educators and photographers with extensive workshop experience
- A variety of engaging activities designed to create a fun, interactive and memorable learning experience
- Funding support for transport to the venue, where required.
Current and Past Projects
The Ridgeway 50 Photographs Project
- Marking the 50th anniversary of The Ridgeway as a National Trail
- 15 school workshops along the Ridgeway Trail
- Schools based in Luton, High Wycombe, Reading & Swindon
- Funded by the The Arts Council and Oxfordshire County Council
The Chilterns Project – Luton Henge & Wauluds Bank
- 4 school photography workshops at Luton Henge & Wauluds Bank
- Schools based in Luton
- Highlighting the wildlife & accessibility of the Chilterns
- Funded by the Chilterns Conservation Board & DEFRA
- Partnering with The Chilterns National Landscape, The Ridgeway & Revolution Arts
Photographer Without Limits
- DofE Skills workshops providing students with photographic and storytelling skills.
- 9 students who wouldn’t otherwise have the chance
- Partnering with The DofE Award & Nikon
- Funded by Nikon
Through the Natural Lens: Ridgeway National Trail
- 6 school photography workshops on the Ridgeway Trail
- Schools based in Luton, Reading and Swindon
- Highlighting accessibility & amenities
- Created short films, social media content and photographs to promote the trail
- Funded by National Trails.
Lens on the Landscape: The Young Eyes of Crawley
- Marking the 50th anniversary of The Ridgeway as a National Trail
- 15 school workshops along the Ridgeway Trail
- Schools based in Luton, High Wycombe, Reading & Swindon
- Funded by the The Arts Council and Oxfordshire County Council
Creative Photography Projects for Schools
At Sharp Shots, we believe photography is about far more than taking great pictures. Our workshops encourage children to slow down, observe their surroundings, think carefully about composition and express themselves creatively. These are valuable skills that support learning across the curriculum and continue to benefit pupils long after the workshop has ended.
Every funded photography workshop is tailored specifically to your school around a chosen theme. Previous workshop themes have included wildlife photography, local history, still life, action photography and documentary storytelling.
We also work in partnership with organisations across the UK to enrich the experience for participating schools, including National Trails, Wakehurst, Knepp Estate, National Trust, Weald to Waves, Royal Photographic Society, Revolution Arts and many others.
View the short video above to learn more!
