Storytime online
On demand stories told by Gallery Educators
Watch now
Told by Gallery Educators and special guest storytellers, these on demand stories bring paintings from the collection to life.
Once requested, the recording can be accessed any time.
Prices
UK schools: Free
Overseas schools: Free
What to expect
- A storytime film, told by one of our storytellers
- You will be sent a link to watch when you book
- Receive supporting resources with ideas for further activities and exploration
- Unlimited access to film for the whole term so you can watch when works for you
How to book
To sign up please email schoolbookings@nationalgallery.org.uk with 'NG Storytime' in the subject line.
Please include the following details in your email:
- School name
- School post code
- Lead teacher name
- Lead teacher email
- Year group(s) attending session
- Number of classes attending
- Approximate number of students
If you have any questions, please contact: education@nationalgallery.org.uk
Autumn term 2025
Image: Aelbert Cuyp: 'River Landscape with Horseman and Peasants', about 1658-60
‘A Day to Remember’ with Fiona Alderton
With a splish and a sploosh and a sploosh and a splish, with horses and dogs, and a King and a Queen! These are some of the characters that you will meet along the way, in this story that takes us to the top of a mountain and down the other side! From a horse that’s scared of water and a very calming bird, to dancing and laughter and a feast and a song!
‘Calliope, Calliope, The Muse of Epic Poetry!' with Fiona Alderton
What do magpies, princesses, nymphs and muses have in common? Step into and enter a world where gods and goddesses fly high above mountains and sea. And discover why Calliope, the muse of poetry, and the most important of them all-is dressed in clothing woven with gold luxury, sitting on a throne of green and gold, with a stare, looking so disdainfully? Shall we see?
Coming soon
Image: Claude Monet, 'Snow Scene at Argenteuil' (detail), 1875
‘A Walk in the Snow’ with Bethan Durie
A mysterious young woman takes a walk in the snow. But where is she going? And what will she find when she gets there? In this very special winter edition of NG Storytime, be transported to a magical world of frosty air, ringing church bells and glowing windows. Join us as we crunch, crunch our way through Monet’s glittering snowy landscapes, and eventually arrive at a secret, quiet place hidden within.
Image: Henri Rousseau, 'Surprised!' (detail), 1891
‘The Tiger Who Didn’t Like the Rain’ with Preacher the Storyteller
A tiger crouches low beneath dark green trees. But what is he doing? And why does he look so... surprised? Join our special guest storyteller Preacher as he takes us on an adventure deep into the jungle, where we’ll meet Sabre the Tiger and his animal friends. Watch out as they encounter snapping branches, lightning strikes and a group of tourists who give Sabre a very good idea! A special story all about courage, inspired by previous Take One Picture exhibition participants, Mab’s Cross Primary School in Wigan.