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Programme

Programme
Image - Ja Mean

Hammerschool is an ongoing skills development and creative learning programme rooted in the practical knowledge, culture and experience of AfrikaBurn’s Department of Public Works, but it has grown into something bigger than a single event, crew, or yearly build cycle.

Led by former DPW department leads, skilled artisans, artists, educators and facilitators from a range of backgrounds, the programme creates hands-on learning spaces where people can build confidence, learn practical skills, work collaboratively, and take part in making public art.

...building things is never only about tools and materials. Communication, trust, leadership, accountability and care are central to the process...

Image – Cyndi

Participants learn through guided workshops, group projects and real-world builds, covering skills such as tool use, basic construction, design thinking, safety, installation methods and collaborative problem-solving. Hammerschool also recognises that building things is never only about tools and materials. Communication, trust, leadership, accountability and care are central to the process. Diversity literacy, reflection and group work are woven into the programme to support more inclusive, thoughtful collaboration.

The programme actively opens access for people who have historically been underrepresented in technical, creative and production spaces, including young people, women, people of colour, and communities with limited access to tools, workshops and creative infrastructure.

Hammerschool has already run multiple successful iterations, and continues to grow as a platform for skills development, creative participation and community-led learning.

what to expect in 2026?

The 2026 edition of Hammerschool will be a 12-session hands-on creative construction course running from August – November. Workshops take place at AfrikaBurn’s Salt River HQ on Saturdays and generally run from 09h30am – 15h30pm.
The students will be guided through the complete process of designing, building, and exhibiting a unique artwork. The course will culminate at Streetopia on the 28 November, where students will exhibit their pieces and participate in a graduation ceremony.
PHASE 1: Dreaming & Designing
22 August
phase 2: carpentry & construction
29 August, 5, 19 & 26 september
Phase 3: Reflection & Growth
3 october
Phase 4: Steelwork & Fabrication
24 & 31 october, 7 november
Phase 5: Assembly & Finishing
21 & 27 november
Phase 6: Exhibition & Installation
streetopia! 28 november
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Keen to get involved?

We’re looking for facilitators, learners, leaders and volunteers. Get in touch if our jam feels like it suits you.

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