 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
" The Aboriginal workshops created a unique learning experience for the students on the programme.They were engaged right from the start and thoroughly enjoyed the experience"
Pupils take art from looking down under by Leah Shaw, Education reporter SOUTH Tyneside students have been inspired by Aboriginal art. The youngsters from The Alternative Education Service – based at the Cleadon Park Centre in South Shields – have been gaining greater educational achievement from the personal development project. Thirty boys and girls have been working with community artist Eddie Galvin as part of a set of challenges organised by Blue Venture, the education business partnership for South Tyneside. Blue Venture project manager Keith Newman said: "The art sessions allow us to start from a creative base, and because this kind of art encourages personal interpretation, it gives the youngsters a chance to express themselves in a positive way. "Art is a fantastic way to bring out hidden talents, encourage free expression and interpretation, and of course in this case, learn about Australian and Aboriginal history and culture." The Aboriginal art and history experience is just the beginning of a six-month personal development and team-building initiative for the youngsters. Mr Newman added: "The indications are that school work and attendance improves when these youngsters are given responsibilities within this type of challenge. "Their confidence grows and their outlook on life is more positive as a result." The Blue Venture education business partnership brings schools and industry together in and around South Tyneside, involving employers in projects, raising achievement and developing an enterprising edge to the school curriculum. Business involvement helps young people develop employability skills and introduces them to careers they might never have considered. "Hi Eddie - Tina and I really enjoyed yesterday and so did the children and parents at Seaton delaval 1st School. I really appreciated both the art workshops you ran and the amount effort you put in to the day; above and beyond (almost literally!) anything we expected. Mark Tait, Children's Information Service and Marketing Assistant
|
"NE Arts fills a gap in delivering creative approaches to help individuals and communities build confidence, raise aspirations and connect to wider opportunities. It is great to know that it is the brainchild of local entrepreneur, at a time when we are encouraging local people to use their talents to set up in business" 