How to bring fresh and creative ideas into the classroom is the discussion focus for this year’s Creativity Exchange event hosted by Worcestershire Cultural Education Partnership. 

The event, which is open to professionals working in educational settings and creative practitioners includes a keynote speech by Dr Michael Anderson, Professor of Creativity and Arts Education at The University of Sydney, a programme of workshops and activities to explore and share new creative teaching ideas and the presentation of two commissioned pieces of work by Worcestershire’s young artists. Participants signing up to the event can select three 20-minute workshops they would like to attend from a list of 11. These include: Shakespeare’s Map by Perfect Circle Theatre unlocking clues in the text to help pupils understand Shakespeare’s intentions for his characters; Recycled paper making demonstration by Meadow Arts with an emphasis on recycling and turning scrap into pieces of artwork; and Youth Theatre – How can it enhance learning? By Worcester Live showing how some difficult situations can be unwrapped and discussed through the drama forum. 

Elaine Knight, Arts Director, Severn Arts said: “A lot has been packed into the programme for Creativity Exchange this year. Our keynote speaker comes with a wealth of knowledge about the role of creativity in learning and our artists have got some really creative practical ideas to share. We’ve also timed the event to support and re-energise teachers as they plan for the next academic year.” 

Artists Emma Bourke and Freddie Barker will be presenting the new work they have created to demonstrate the advantages and longer-term benefits of participating in arts and culture as part of their education. 

Creativity Exchange 2021 is an online event taking place on Tuesday 6 July from 5 – 7.30pm. The event is free to attend but spaces are limited so booking in advance is advised. To find out more and book a free place visit https://www.severnarts.org.uk/Event/creativity-exchange  

Worcestershire Cultural Education Partnership