THE pupils at All Saints Marsh C of E Academy in Newton Abbot were treated to a very special day of art when they took part in a workshop under the guidance of local artist, James Hedge.

The school, which is part of the Learning Academy Partnership (LAP), lived out one of the trust’s beliefs which is ‘You cannot be what you cannot see.’

Getting involved in art can improve outcomes for young people across their creative, learning and social needs.

The arts are an essential part of any child’s learning journey because it enables them to express themselves in a creative way, which is both empowering and enriching. During the workshop the children were lucky enough to work directly with James, who inspired them to be creative and expressive using paint.

The project was a Helen Foundation supported workshop, facilitated by Daisi and the Trust’s central funds to bring experiences to life, and the children took full advantage by creating masterpieces for display around the school.

It was an interactive and memorable day for the children in which they explored the application of paint in unfamiliar and inventive ways.

They used colour explosions, textured splats, bold brush strokes and delicate linear work to describe and represent the changing impact of colour and light on the landscape throughout the day on chosen local landmarks.

Between them, the children decided that Forde Park represented a spring morning, while Bradley Manor represented a noon thunderstorm. Courtenay Park was deemed to represent the late sun, while Templar Way was designated as representing dusk.

The project was linked to the art curriculum the children are following, where they have been studying abstract landscape painting using inspiration form artists such as Jackson Pollock and Martin Bush. But this action painting enabled the children to express and explore art using line, tone and colour using self expression.

Once waterproofed the boards will be on display in the playground for all to admire and there will be a grand unveiling which the children are very excited about.

Trust Lead, Tracey Cleverly, heralded the art initiative and the co-operation between the three organisations to deliver the project for the children.

She said: ‘This is a great way for the children to get involved in the actual process of art, and the tactile elements that Daisi bring to such projects is really important in trying to engage children in art.

‘These projects all tie into what we constantly strive to do here at the Learning Academy Partnership, in ensuring that all our pupils have flourishing futures.

‘Children are at the forefront of everything we do, and we absolutely believe that we are stronger together.”

‘We must thank the Helen Foundation and in particular Roger and Annie Kirk, who established the Helen Foundation in memory of their daughter who loved the arts.

‘The children were humbled listening to the work of the charity as Roger and Annie explained that the charity is funding similar projects in over 60 schools in Teignbridge.

‘It was so powerful for the children to see that they are part of something bigger.”