In a new film, made by A New Direction for a recent conference, the leading educationalist Sir Ken Robinson actively voices his support for Arts Award.

 During the video, the world-respected author and speaker describes the award’s valuable role in developing arts education in schools and other organisations.

 ‘I would want to endorse it and encourage schools to take it seriously’, enthuses Sir Ken. He goes on to add that Arts Award has proved itself in recent years and states that other countries could learn from the example set by the award.

 The full video can be viewed both on YouTube and A New Direction’s website, where there are a number clips featuring Sir Ken’s views on wide-ranging topics; from Artsmark, to Creative Partnerships and the impact of educational policy on society.

Both Hannah and Andrew are heavily involved in Arts Award in Gateshead and Newcastle. As well as being an Arts Award Bronze and Silver adviser, Hannah and colleagues from the Gateshead Arts Team took part in the pilot for two new Arts Award levels, Arts Award Discover and Arts Award Explore.

 During the pilot the team worked with St. Augustine’s Primary School, The Cedars School and Sports College and Gateshead Little Youth Theatre. The pilot proved a great success and Arts Award Discover and Arts Award Explore will be open to all from April 2012 onwards.

 Andrew is an Arts Award Trainer for Newcastle and Gateshead as well as being an Arts Award Bronze, Silver and Gold Adviser. If any school or group is interested in training any staff or volunteers to become Arts Award Bronze and Silver Advisers please get in touch. For organisations in Northumberland, please contact Sam Taylor, Arts Development Officer at sam.taylor@northumberland.gov.uk or 01670 533653.

For more information about Arts Award please go to www.artsaward.org.uk