Arting around at Howard Community Academy
Pupils at Howard Community Academy, part of Anglian learning, explored their creative side with a storytelling workshop led by artist Jen Langeskov.
The one-day workshop took place at the school with a strong focus on neurodiversity and encouraging critical and creative thinking in the arts. Fifteen pupils from years 3 and 4 explored a story together and were guided on how to visualise the moral of the story through painting.
Jen is the founder and director of Arting Around which specialises in providing workshops that inspire creativity and highlight the power of the arts in personal and educational development. Jen’s art practice is multi-disciplinary painting, sculpture and socially engaged practice.
Jen said “Delivering critical and creative thinking through art to young children is challenging, particularly when there are additional needs. However, the year 3s and 4s at Howard Community Academy were absolutely delightful.”
“Their ability to think critically and creatively exceeded expectations, whilst the transfer of ideas through artistic practice was both heartwarming and impressive. As an artist, I could not have asked for anything more. A wonderful experience for their pupils, staff and myself”.
Following the pupil’s workshop, staff members took part in a continued professional development session (CPD) to inspire their teaching of creativity to pupils. The full workshop was funded by The Zobel Charitable Trust.
Alison Weir, Headteacher at Howard Community Academy said “We believe passionately in the power of arts and how it positively impacts young lives. Jen’s workshop for both pupils and staff complemented our dedication to being an inclusive educational provider that supports a child, no matter their background or ability, helping them to feel a sense of belonging to their school.
“We are thankful to Arting Around and The Zobel Trust for providing this enriching opportunity”.
Howard Community Academy was awarded the prestigious Artsmark Gold Award, awarded by Arts Council England in 2023, which recognises the school’s excellent commitment to arts and culture. Anglian Learning has a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Arts Council England, demonstrating a commitment to work with arts and heritage partners in designing a culture-rich curriculum that enables all pupils to advance their creative skills and literacy, regardless of their background or starting point.
