What we do in schools?

The Forge has been providing cost effective participatory arts projects for schools in the north east region for over ten years. We are committed to providing children and young people opportunities to work with inspirational artists in their school, whilst also supporting teachers to put creativity at the heart of their practice. We have worked with over 50% of all schools in the North East of England and have demonstrated that the arts can support school improvement and curriculum innovation. Click here to register your school and become a member of The Forge community at no cost to your school.

Our approach

There is a growing body of research and reports from a wide range of policy makers including Ofsted that show that participation in the arts can raise standards, change attitudes, improve behaviour and increase the quality of teaching and learning. Working with artists improves self esteem and self confidence, raises attainment in a range of subjects, enhances speaking, listening and observational skills, increases motivation, improves behaviour, enhances peer relationships, creates enjoyment and contributes to school and community development.

Why have artists in your school?

We are good at listening and understanding your needs to ensure we develop the right project for you. We are committed to providing quality experiences for the young people we work with and have developed a 5 step programme that underpins the process the young people experience.
This includes:
• Preparation – building mutual trust
• Organisation – refining thinking and agreeing targets
• Origination – developing a creative response
• Sharing – a celebratory event
• Reflection and renewal – reviewing the experience and making plans for the future.

By working with The Forge you get:

Access to The Forge team

Our experienced core team has been working with schools for many years. We also have a network of experienced arts practitioners who specialise in working in schools and give you exactly what you are looking for.

Access to our projects and programmes

Our Connections programme provides an extensive range of cost efficient opportunities for schools so you can have artists working in your classrooms. Click here for our current offer.

Access to ongoing support

The Forge works closely with local authorities to develop sustainable progression routes for schools. With us you get specialist and continued support to ensure the work we do is sustained, embedded and continues to move your school forward.

The National Curriculum

Connections supports the aims, values and purposes of the National Curriculum.  You will find as other schools have that your involvement in The Forge’s programmes can contribute to the delivery of a strong curriculum.  Here (Here as a hyperlink) is some information about the impact The Forge’s arts programmes can have on the delivery of the National Curriculum. Click here to download our guide to how Connections can link in with various subjects currently in the National Curriculum.