The popular creative scheme MakerWorld is reopening its doors at the Packhorse Centre in Huddersfield and the Princess of Wales Precinct in Dewsbury, bringing free hands-on arts and crafts sessions to children and families through to Christmas.
Funding Secured for Town Centre Hubs
Fresh funding from local councils and community foundations has enabled the town centre project to resume its activities. Organised by The Children's Art School, the hub previously welcomed more than 14,000 visitors during its first year of operation. Survey data showed that 72 per cent of visiting families listed MakerWorld as their main reason for travelling into Huddersfield town centre.
Young people previously enjoyed eight distinct exhibitions, tailored sessions for special educational needs groups, and a temporary skatepark. Alongside the main reopening, weekly Little Makers sessions for younger children will return in September on Fridays from 10am to noon.
Call for Long-Term Investment
Organisers are now preparing a new fundraising campaign to secure the future of the Huddersfield venue for another year. Chloe Williams, MakerWorld director, said: “Securing this funding means we can keep MakerWorld open for the months ahead, but what it really highlights is the need for long-term investment in creative spaces for children and young people. The impact we’ve seen over the past year shows how vital this kind of provision is, not just culturally but for the wider town centre. To really build on that momentum, we need sustained support that allows us to plan ahead, grow the programme and continue offering free, accessible opportunities for every child to create, experiment and feel part of something.”
Session Details and Access
The MakerWorld sessions run from July 25 to Christmas at Packhorse Centre (Huddersfield) and Princess of Wales Precinct (Dewsbury), and are free to attend. For more information, visit www.thechildrensartschool.co.uk or email hello@thechildrensartschool.co.uk.
