FAQ’s
Do you offer a discount for those facing financial barriers to access?
Yes we do, we are pleased to say that we can offer support with fees on all our craft courses and workshops for adults and under 18’s. Apply for a bursary place here, or refer someone else.
Can I get a refund?
We really hope you don’t need to, but any changes need to be made at least 30 days in advance. No refunds are given for any cancellation made within 30 days of a class commencing. An administration fee of 10% will be made on cancellations or alterations before this time. We cannot offer a refund if you are unwell for any reason and unable to attend.
What’s the difference between courses and workshops?
Courses are weekly classes, usually 5 – 10 weeks in length
Workshops are one-off classes and can be a few hours or a few days
How do I book?
Bookings can be made:
• Online at www.newbreweryarts.org.uk
• By phone on 01285 657 181 (Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm)
Can I reserve a space?
We cannot reserve a space without payment. Full payment must be taken to confirm your space.
I can’t afford the full amount; can I pay in instalments?
Sorry, this is not currently possible. However, if you are struggling financially, please look at our bursary page to see if we can help fund your space.
Can I get partial refund if I am unable to attend the sessions that I am booked on?
If you start a course and miss some sessions, then we are unable to offer reimbursement. As a small charity, we carefully consider our budgeting. Our courses and workshops are self-funded and therefore transferring time and materials to another course or workshop is not possible.
How far in advance do I need to book on to a Course or a Workshop?
As our class sizes are small to give plenty of interaction with the tutor, we would recommend booking as soon as you see something which catches your eye.
Bookings are assessed 2 weeks before the workshop, please book more than 2 weeks in advance if you are considering. If you wait to book until the last minute, we may have cancelled the session.
When do you release your courses?
We have three terms which follow a school year. The bookings for the next term are taken during half term breaks. Roughly, February, May and October; a printed brochure is also produced at this time.
When do you release your workshops?
Workshops are regularly added to our website, but we do also produce printed material detailing the workshops.
Why do you need my phone number and email when I make a booking?
We need an email address to send you confirmation of booking. We also send a reminder email just before your class to make sure you haven’t forgotten.
Also, sometimes things go wrong, tutors are unwell or we may have to postpone so we ask for a phone number and an email to make sure you know in plenty of time.
Do you have parking?
Unfortunately, we do not have our own designated car park, however there are plenty around Cirencester. The nearest car park is The Brewery Car Park which is approximately 2 minutes away and is a council run pay and display. This car park has several disabled parking spaces too. Full details of all car parks and pricing can be found here.
Can I buy class or workshop gift vouchers?
You can buy gift vouchers online or over the phone. They must be redeemed within 12 months of purchase and can only be used against classes.
How do I pay for a course or workshop using a gift voucher?
If you are booking using a gift voucher, please apply the 16-digit code at the payment stage of your booking.
How accessible are your studios?
All our studios are wheelchair accessible and members of our team will be able to assist you if you require. Near the shop on the ground floor we have a disabled toilet and a lift which will allow you access around the building.
If you find it difficult to stand during a class or have any other access needs, please let us know when booking so we can make appropriate arrangements.
I want to take part in a weekly course; can I try the first class and see if I like it?
Unfortunately not. Once you have booked, we do need you to commit to participating for the full duration of the course. However, we offer lots of one day workshops which may give you a taste of a craft or an opportunity to experience a tutor’s method.
Is everyone an expert? I’m worried I’m not skilled enough.
Firstly, you don’t need to worry. We accept students with lots of different experience. Our sessions are taught by tutors who are expecting a mixture of abilities. Our classes are a mix of complete beginners to the more advanced; it’s always been positive and most students feel it’s encouraging. If a session is for those with a bit more experience we will make it very clear in the title, description and on the booking page. The most important thing is we want everyone to feel comfortable, so if you are not sure, just give us a call.
Can my child join me on an adult workshop?
Unfortunately not, all participants must be over 18 years old to attend an adult workshop. If you have any questions about this then please contact a member of the participation team.
Can I turn up to a workshop on the day?
Sadly no, although if you join our mailing list, we’ll send you details of any last-minute availability. Or you can call on the morning of a desired workshop to see if we still have spaces.
Do you have a cancellation list/reserve list?
Some of our classes are very popular and we do operate a reserve list. Please get in touch to reserve your place on a fully booked course or workshop.
Will I need to wear a face covering?
We follow government guidelines carefully. Face masks are no longer mandatory
How many students will be in my class?
We pride ourselves on smaller class sizes, so you get plenty of help from the tutors. Maximum 8-10 students per class.
Can I bring my own materials?
Of course, and for some classes we may ask you to do this. Please don’t worry, if this is the case it will be clearly shown on the booking pages and in your confirmation emails.
Will you provide aprons?
No, we ask that students either bring their own or wear clothes they are happy to get messy in.
Will refreshments be provided?
You are welcome to bring a lidded bottle of water with you but we kindly ask that you do not bring food or drinks into the studio.
CHILDREN and Families
Can I drop off earlier?
You are welcome to arrive earlier than the published start time, but you must stay with your child until the workshop or course begins. We do not have enough staff to oversee children in the building outside of workshop/class times.
Can a parent stay?
Some of our sessions are family workshops so we require you to stay. For activities where you do not need to stay but you are concerned about leaving your child – we suggest that you let the participation office know and then stay in the café, so you are around if needed. However, usually once things have started, children are quite happy, and our tutors are great at making them feel happy and content.
What if my child wants to take part in a workshop that’s for adults? Can they attend if a parent comes with them?
Unfortunately not, all participants must be over 18 years old to attend an adult workshop. If you have any questions about this then please contact a member of the participation team.
My child is younger than the minimum age; can they still attend?
No, the minimum age is set to make sure our child ratios are correct and are based on the skills ability.
What happens at lunch time?
Our children’s workshops are currently half a day. We cannot supervise children over lunch time in the café or allow children to eat inside the studios for health and safety reasons.
How do you safeguard my child?
All staff working with children go through a Recruiting Safely procedure and have been adequately checked as per government DBS guidelines. If you would like to read a copy of our safeguarding policy statement, please click here
My child has additional needs; is that ok?
Our building and all our courses and workshops are fully accessible. Children with additional needs are welcome to attend with a support worker or parent. Please call us to discuss individual requirements prior to your visit.
Other things you might like to know!
How do I become a tutor at New Brewery Arts? We are always keen to hear from any skilled and friendly crafts people. If you would like to learn more, please email miranda@newbreweryarts.org.uk
How do I keep in touch? Sign up to our mailing list here; you can decide what you want to hear about and remove yourself at any time.