ARC Stockton Arts Centre

ARC  is a vibrant, multi-use arts venue offering a rich theatre programme. Alongside our professional performances, we are deeply committed to nurturing the next generation of creatives through accessible learning opportunities.

We deliver theatre research and development workshops for primary, secondary and college students, providing young people with hands-on experiences that encourage creativity, confidence, and collaboration. These sessions give students the chance to explore performance, storytelling, and the creative process in a supportive and inspiring environment.

In addition, ARC offers paid touring productions and creative workshops for primary, secondary, and college students, bringing high-quality theatre directly to young audiences and complementing classroom learning.

ARC Stockton Arts Centre provides hireable performance and event spaces, supporting artists, community groups, and organisations to bring their own projects to life within a professional arts setting.

We place people, comfort, and access at the centre of everything we do. Schools and colleges return to us because they know they will be welcomed into a supportive, community-driven environment where every student is valued.

Our accessible and flexible spaces are designed to support a wide range of needs, with relaxed performances, chill-out areas, and dedicated spaces for our neurodivergent community, helping students feel safe, calm, and included throughout their visit. We offer a generous seating capacity, making ARC suitable for both small groups and large school visits.

Our friendly booking team is on hand to support teachers at every stage, whether planning well in advance or arranging last-minute bookings.

We also provide access packs on request, including fidget toys, noise-cancelling headphones, weighted shoulder and lap pads, and stretch bands, ensuring students can fully engage in a way that works for them. In addition, ARC is equipped with Changing Places facilities, further supporting inclusive and dignified access for all visitors.

ARC tailors its school visits to support relevant key stages and curriculum areas, ensuring each experience is meaningful and age-appropriate. Our family and primary-aged provision is underpinned by PSHE curriculum themes, supporting emotional literacy, relationships, confidence, and wellbeing through engaging theatre and creative experiences.

For secondary and college-aged students, our theatre programme explores personal development, wellbeing, and wider curriculum-linked themes. Where possible, visits can be tailored to the specific needs, age range, or learning objectives of each group, allowing teachers to get the most value from their visit.

ARC caters for a wide range of group sizes and age ranges, from small classes to large year-group visits. We aim to be flexible and accommodating wherever possible.

Wherever possible, ARC provides supporting teaching resources and curriculum packs to accompany shows, events, and performances. These materials are designed to help teachers prepare students ahead of their visit and extend learning afterwards.

Photography, filming, and audio recording are permitted unless specific restrictions apply to an individual performance or event. Any copyright or licensing restrictions will be clearly communicated to schools in advance where relevant.

Schools may request risk assessment information by contacting their main point of contact at ARC Stockton Arts Centre. Requests will then be shared with the relevant staff or visiting organisation to ensure appropriate documentation.

ARC does not have a single named education officer. Schools should contact the Box Office in the first instance, after which relevant staff will be notified and will respond directly to enquiries.

ARC offers a clear and school-friendly pricing structure designed to support access and affordability. Early bird ticket prices are available for school shows, and for every 11 tickets booked, you get one free. Companion tickets are also provided free of charge where required.

Pay What You Decide (PWYD) pricing is available for theatre shows, excluding school and family performances.

No specific clothing is required for visits to ARC.

ARC Stockton Arts Centre has first aid provision on site. Schools are advised to bring any additional support or information specific to their group’s needs as part of their usual visit planning.

ARC offers a wide range of facilities to support school visits, including a Box Office, theatre, cinema, and Family Library (Our Little Library).

On-site catering is available via Culture Kitchen café, alongside dining areas and a bar. Additional facilities include toilets, Changing Places, chill-out spaces, and packed lunch areas available on request.

ARC Stockton Arts Centre is fully accessible and welcomes all customers. The building offers wheelchair access, accessible toilets, Changing Places facilities, and inclusive spaces designed to support a wide range of access needs.

Mon: Closed
Tue: 10am – 6pm
Wed: 10am – 7.30pm
Thu: 10am – 9.30pm
Fri – Sat: 10am – 6pm
Sun: Closed

The agreed minimum cost meant school budget was not greatly impacted and made it rewarding to school and pupils. – Mill lane Primary School

Your hospitality was amazing as always – Family Action

ARC always considerate to our needs and we appreciate the conscientious way ARC approaches programming and support – SNAPs