The Gateway in Shrewsbury celebrates its 30th anniversary
On Friday 5 December 2014 the Gateway Education and Arts Centre in Shrewsbury will be celebrating 30 years of opening to the public.
To mark the occasion Community Learning, which is part of Shropshire Council, has organised an open day to celebrate and showcase the centre’s activities. The event runs from 10am until 4pm, and visitors will be able to watch musical performances, art demonstrations, and discuss the courses and activities that are available.
The Gateway was originally founded by the Roy Fletcher Trust and officially opened by HRH Princess Anne. During its 30 years, the centre has continually delivered a wide range of community learning and arts activities, along with providing a cultural and education venue.
Sarah Lumley, Community Learning Manager, said:-
“The open day is a great opportunity for anyone to come and find out a bit more about what goes on at The Gateway. Every season we are adding new courses to our schedule and there really is something for everyone.”
The Gateway Coffee Shop will be offering a special three course Christmas taster menu along with their usual array of cakes. Visitors on the day who sign up to a course will be offered a free tea or coffee. There will also be a range of competitions and prizes on offer.
Ann Hartley, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member, said:
“Being creative or learning something new is so important to our well-being and happiness, and the Gateway is a fantastic place to do this. I would encourage the public to come along and see what’s available to them, and celebrate the success of this diverse and vibrant centre.”
From January 2015, the Gateway will be running its new schedule of courses, including machine embroidery, dressmaking, web design, using eBay, nutrition for children, pilates and yoga, plus a range of other classes. You can view the full list online at shropshire.gov.uk/gateway.nsf.
If you are an artist or designer and are looking for an outlet to sell your work, the Gateway has an art gallery and display cabinets to hire.
The Community Learning team also works closely within local communities in venues such as day centres and sheltered housing schemes, offering activities including arts, crafts, computing, music and dance.
To find out more about the open event, courses at the Gateway or how you can become involved with the centre and its services, contact 01743 355159 or email gateway.centre@shropshire.gov.uk.
