A FREE creative course at The Vale in Mossley has been praised after helping local adults build confidence, learn new artistic skills and feel more connected to their community.
The 12-week Get Creative programme was open to people aged over 16 who were not currently in work and took place at the arts centre on Vale Road.
The course was delivered by resident Carnival arts organisation Global Grooves.
Rather than focusing solely on art techniques, the sessions were designed to encourage social interaction and personal development alongside creativity. Participants explored a range of activities including clay work, silk painting and batik.
Workshops were led by artists Mel Roberts, Ellesse Young and Lizzie Rigby. During the first part of the course, the group took inspiration from Carnival masks, producing three-dimensional clay pieces influenced by myths and cultural traditions.
Participants were also given the opportunity to work alongside Global Grooves’ partner organisation Cabasa Carnival Arts, helping to hand-paint three-metre silk flags.
The finished flags were later used in the Northern Lights Winter Parade in Stalybridge, marking the first time many of those involved had seen their work displayed in a public setting.
Rebecca, one of the participants, said: “Before I came here I never felt proud of my creative work. But I am so proud of the work I’ve made through the course and my confidence has grown so much.”
The Vale’s community engagement lead, Jane Harris, said the course had helped attendees feel part of the wider creative scene in Mossley.
“I’m really pleased that everyone who attended now feels more connected to the creative community at The Vale and all the opportunities that will open up for them,” she said.
“Some of the group have already volunteered to support community events at The Vale and others are now making plans for their next steps in creative skills development.
“We were absolutely delighted to hear that one of the participants has already found employment as a teaching assistant in a local school, where she will be able to use some of her creative skills.”
The Get Creative course was funded by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority and the Workers’ Educational Association.
Building on its success, The Vale will begin a new programme of free drop-in sessions from Wednesday, January 14, 2026. The Wednesday Welcome sessions will run from 1pm to 3pm and are open to anyone interested in taking part in creative activities.
For more information, residents can email hello@globalgrooves.org or call 01457 238 089.