Highfield Littleport Academy receives award for its arts provision

The school caters to pupils from two-19 years of age who have significant and complex learning difficulties.  

Some have associated physical disabilities, sensory, communication or medical needs. 

Artsmark is the only creative quality standard for schools, accredited by Arts Council England and it has recognised the school for successfully embedding arts, culture and creativity across the whole curriculum. 

Staff from the school found the process to be a positive experience, boosting the visibility and value of the arts across the school community. 

Underwater-themed creativity from Highfield Littleport Academy. (Image: Highfield Littleport Academy)

The framework helped pupils to feel empowered to try new things and teachers built up confidence through exploring examples of good practice.  

The programme kicked-off with a whole school festival, which the children enjoyed. 

Head of the School, Yvonne Skillern, said: “Our pupils have a wide range of needs and learning styles, so our curriculum has several pathways to help meet these.  

“Adding enhanced provision through the arts has increased engagement and improved our pupils’ use of perceptual skills and response to stimulation. 

She added: “There have been excellent opportunities for collaborative working between groups on a shared creative stimulus with hugely positive effects, such as developing good social skills for our learners.” 

As a result of the school’s journey so far, there are plans to continue developing external partnerships with other agencies to develop the arts even further. 

Yvonne added: “It is clear to see our achievements over the Artsmark journey have cemented the idea across the school that the arts have much to offer learners with complex needs.  

“Well done to all of the staff and students involved. I am looking forward to seeing our provision develop even further in the future for the benefit of each and every learner.”