More than 600 children across Tameside have taken part in a creative programme exploring topics including road safety, the environment and emotional wellbeing.
The Arts Award project was delivered across more than 20 schools and community groups during the past academic year by Tameside Council’s Cultural Services and Community Safety teams.
Arts Award is a nationally recognised set of qualifications designed to encourage young people to develop their creativity and arts skills while gaining experience and qualifications.
As part of the programme, pupils worked alongside professional local artists and creatives to explore different themes and issues through a range of art forms.
Each participating school took part in artist-led sessions over four to six weeks. During this time, pupils worked with creative professionals to co-create artwork inspired by the theme of their individual project, while developing a range of artistic skills.
The programme also gave young people an opportunity to learn more about potential careers in the creative industries by working directly with people already working in the sector.
Some schools took part in projects with the National Theatre, creating and performing Jack and the Christmas Tree pantomimes.
The projects gave children the opportunity to write their own scripts before performing them, allowing pupils to experience the different stages involved in producing a theatre production.
While each project resulted in a creative piece or performance, the activities were also designed to help pupils develop a deeper understanding of the themes and messages being explored.
At the end of each project, participating schools were supported to hold Arts Award presentations during school assemblies.
Children who completed the programme were presented with certificates from Trinity College London and Arts Council England in recognition of their achievements.
The council said the programme provided young people with an opportunity to develop creative skills while exploring issues that affect their lives and communities.