Authors, Artists and Performers for Schools

Where to go for Contacts and Funding

Northern Children’s Book Festival Directory of Locally Based Authors, available from Durham Learning Resources. Tel: 0191 370 6224/6221.
New Writing North. Tel: 0191 2221332 They do a lot of work in schools, and have contacts and funding.
Seven Stories - the centre for children’s books. Tel: 0845 2710777
Arts Development, Durham County Council. Strategic Manager - Heritage & Culture is Neil Hillier. Contact James Lowther, The Rivergreen Centre tel: 0191 3708820, for information about storytellers, textile artists, writers, sculptors, printmakers, photographers, musicians, ceramicists, embroaderers and many more who run workshops in schools.
The Forge - Tony Harrington is The Forge’s director. Contact Cheryl Gallagher, Projects Producer, Stanley Education Centre. Tel: 01207 284515
- Database of artists skilled at working in the educational sector
- High quality arts projects and grants
- Training and advice for artists and schools
Durham Music Service, Kingsway Music Centre, Bishop Auckland. Contact Jan Wilson, Head of Service, tel: 01388 608421. Music service for LEA schools in County Durham and Darlington, offering instrumental and vocal tuition, whole class music tuition, a range of ensembles, curriculum support vocal workshops, concerts in schools, INSET for teachers and advice.
The Sage Gateshead - to book a school visit contact Sue Finn tel: 0191 4434587, and to find out about other musical opportunities for schools contact Britta Koerber tel: 0191 4434679
DanceCity’s Freelance Register - available from DanceCity, tel: 0191 2610505. DanceCity also hold youth dance events at different locations in the region.
Chester-le-Street District Council - contact Jo-Anne Simpson, Arts Development Officer, tel: 0191 3872125.
Derwentside District Council - contact Martin Weston, Arts Development Officer, Louisa Centre, Stanley, tel: 01207 218988
Durham City Arts - contact Alison Keeper, tel: 0191 3750763
Easington District Council - contact Dave Clarke, Arts Development Officer - tel: 0191 5270501
Sedgefield District Council - contact Katie Banner, Arts Development Officer, tel: 01388 816166
Teesdale District Council - no Arts Development Officer at present
Wear Valley District Council - contact Stephen Wiper, Arts Development Officer - tel: 01388 765555
Arts Council England North East
Central Square
Forth Street
Newcastle upon Tyne
NE1 3PJ
Tel: 0845 3006200
County Councillors have a small budget for projects in their ward.