Automata in the Classroom

Following the success of our community workshops at the Mechanical Making Space, CMT is developing Automata in the Classroom.

Cabaret Mechanical Theatre will co-create with teachers a range of strategies for using the collection and introducing automata in the classroom, with a view to developing practical and creative skills and understanding simple engineering concepts. 

CMT will work with local schools (a mix of primary, secondary and special) to develop approaches that work at different key stages. We already have 5 schools on board and excited to take part in this project in 2026.

To make this project happen we need to raise £19,350. Your donations can help make this happen. Click here to support us.

The programme would look as follows:

1. Practical half day CPD (Continuing Professional Development) session to explore automata making.
2. Artists Loulou Cousin & Stephen Guy to have time to develop resources
3. School sessions, both artist and teacher-led
4. Mechanical Making Space session to review and share outcomes
5. Legacy – develop resources to inform larger project with schools 
6. Outcomes shared with a view to sourcing sponsorship for a larger programme

Outcomes

1. Teachers and TAs confident in introducing simple automata making skills in the classroom
2. Students have developed new creative and practical skills
3. Students have understood a range of engineering concepts central to automata making
4. The experience of making automata opens children and young people’s eyes to a range of different career choices from 3D design to engineering and architecture.
5. CMT have co-developed ways of working with teachers that are applicable to other schools

Timescale: We are working towards the project starting in May 2026 and running to Spring 2027.

Cabaret Mechanical Theatre (CMT) an extraordinary collection of artist-made automata, put together by Sue Jackson has made its home in Hastings. Many people remember it from its hey day in Covent Garden in the 1990s where it inspired many generations of new automata makers.  Since then, the collection has toured the world, with exhibitions in science centres and museums. Each and every piece in the collection is a wonderful combination of creativity, engineering and storytelling. 

Now managed by Sue’s daughter Sarah, the collection is housed in Hastings, and CMT is keen to develop strategies for it to be a catalyst for creativity and skills in the local community.