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Aspire
Belong
Connect
​Artistic and Creative Expression
(ACE) Pathway
Embedded within our curriculum is a regular focus on arts and crafts, offering a unique element to our alternative provision
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These creative activities provide learners with valuable mindfulness opportunities that support emotional regulation. ​ We firmly believe that incorporating moments of creativity throughout the day helps learners relax, reduces anxiety, and offers a welcome break from any personal pressures they may be facing. Through the process of creating art, learners experience a sense of accomplishment, build confidence, and have opportunities for self-reflection and personal growth. ​ Art projects also play a key role in boosting self-esteem and promoting overall well-being.
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Engaging in art activities not only inspires learners but also encourages them to think critically and creatively. These tasks support the development of physical skills, including fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination.
Many of our arts and crafts materials are sourced through generous donations from individuals and larger companies. By recycling materials, we not only reduce waste but also promote environmental sustainability. This approach fosters reflection and helps learners understand the positive impact they can have by becoming more environmentally conscious.
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The arts and crafts activities are thoughtfully themed throughout the academic year to align with key national awareness days, such as Remembrance in November, and religious festivals like Diwali and Easter. This offers learners the opportunity to explore and learn more about the world around them and their local communities. Art becomes a gateway for understanding different cultures, traditions, and perspectives, fostering a broader sense of global awareness.
What happens to the artwork?
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Learners produce pieces of artwork to display in the Leading Futures Art Gallery
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Learners can take their artwork home for loved ones to cherish
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Learners can donate pieces to the Leading Futures Enterprise Stall. All the proceeds from the sale of the art pieces helps to buy new equipment for the provision and art supplies
Learner Testimonial
AE
"I don’t usually like art, but here I feel a lot calmer and the art is easier. When I do arts and crafts, I feel it helps me feel euphoric. I feel proud when I complete an art piece. My artwork shows resilience. Arts and crafts help students by giving them hope that they can achieve."
Learner Testimonial
MG
"When I do arts and crafts, I feel it helps me express myself and it makes me feel more relaxed and I forget my worries. I feel proud when I draw or paint something I like and my artwork shows my emotions and feelings. Arts and crafts helps students by giving them a platform to express themselves."
Learner Testimonial
FV
"I feel proud when my art turns out right. Arts and crafts helps students by teaching them new skills and life opportunities."
Learner Testimonial
JP
"I enjoyed creating a hat for Ming! I feel accomplished when I complete an art task. When I do art, I feel distracted from other things."
Learner Testimonial
CE
"I feel proud when I do my artwork because it makes people smile and makes me feel happy when I feel others happy. It helps your mental health because if you are someone who likes arts and crafts it calms you down and it passes time. When I finish my work, it feels like I have completed something. When I do arts and crafts it makes me feel calm and relaxed and it turns my day into a good day every time I do it."