General
The Forge delivers its programme across three main areas. A more strategic approach is being taken to meeting the aims of Every Child Matters and strategic priority targets, therefore schools will benefit from a targeted offer from The Forge.
Our programmes
The Forge strives to work in partnership with appropriate stakeholders and organisations to ensure a joined up approach to our work across the region.
Current developments
14 - 19 Creative and Media Diploma
The Forge is working closely with the school clusters in Durham and Sunderland on the delivery for the 14 - 19 creative and media diploma pilot programme. This is in liaison with both Durham County Council and Sunderland City Council.
Cultural Hub Durham
The Forge will continue to support the transition process and legacy developments for Cultural Hub Durham.
- Cultural Hub Durham
background sheet - Cultural Hub Durham
Year 2 evaluation by Hayton Associates - Cultural Hub Durham
Year 3 - Empower programme overview
Please do check out the CelHUBbrate film
Artsmark
Artsmark provides a benchmark for arts provision that encourages schools to consider the opportunities they offer in art, dance, drama and music. The Forge is working with schools, our Local Authority partners and Arts Council England to raise awareness of the scheme and encourage Durham and Sunderland schools to apply for their Artsmark award.
26% of both Durham and Sunderland schools have their Artsmark compared to 15% of schools nationally. This is a fantastic achievement and we want to continue to help develop this.
The Forge has a strong commitment to raising the profile of Artsmark coupled with an excellent working knowledge of the scheme. We can offer you advice and support before making your application. As part of your Connections membership, schools can access free surgeries and an annual seminar to help you apply for your Artsmark award.
Important Artsmark dates
| June/July | The Forge Artsmark seminars | |
| August/September | Artsmark application packs available for download on the Artsmark website | |
| September | Artsmark helpline opens | |
| October | The Forge Artsmark surgeries | |
| November | Deadline for completed application forms | |
| March | The Forge Networking event | |
| May | Artsmark awards announced |
Any questions? Please call Fiona Melvin at The Forge , check the Artsmark website or call the Artsmark helpline on 0800 0560 196.
Artist Development
The Forge is an agency that is dedicated to developing the creative practitioners, to ensure high quality provision within participatory arts for young people. We aim to provide opportunities for artists we work with at all levels of their career.
