William Edwards School celebrates creative talent with landmark third Artsmark Platinum award

William Edwards School, part of South West Essex Community Education Trust (SWECET), has become the first school in the UK to receive the prestigious Artsmark award for a third time running.

The school was awarded by Arts Council England, with assessors noting its partnerships with Royal Opera House and increased opportunities for pupil performance.

The Artsmark Platinum Award acknowledges schools that demonstrate a deep and embedded approach to the arts across their curriculum and within the wider school environment.

Feedback also noted positive aspects of William Edwards School’s provision, including its strengthened relationships with local schools, the active role pupils play in delivering cultural activities, and the positive outcomes in art subjects.

Simon Bell, Headteacher at William Edwards School, said: “We are so pleased about our Artsmark Platinum Award, especially as it’s our third one in a row. This prestigious award reflects the ongoing work and dedication of our staff and pupils in the arts.

“We believe that school days should be the best days of a pupil’s life, extending experiences and opening new horizons. This achievement affirms our moral purpose in providing a rich cultural education where pupils confidently connect with both historical and contemporary Art and Design to make sense of their world.

“I am particularly proud of the recognition we received about our dedication to celebrating diversity, challenging inequality, and igniting our pupils’ inner creativity. Well done to our brilliant pupils and dedicated staff for making this possible.”

William Edwards School’s creative curriculum would not be possible without its dedicated teaching staff. Neil Moore, Department Leader of Cross-Curricular Studies and Media and the team have been developing this for over a decade, with incredible opportunities emerging as a result.

Neil also recently secured a leadership award at the Royal Opera House Trailblazer Awards. He said: “Art lets our pupils show who they are. It helps them feel they belong and grow as learners. Art should involve everyone, regardless of skill level, something that is even more important today, in the face of shifting government priorities.

“It needs people to stand up for it, and I’m determined to make sure it has a strong future here for everyone. I’m incredibly proud of this wonderful recognition.”

Steve Munday, CEO of SWECET, added: “William Edwards School's consistent attainment of the Artsmark Platinum Award demonstrates exceptional leadership in arts education and its creation of an inclusive environment, where the diverse talents of all pupils are supported and celebrated. It’s thoroughly deserved and a fantastic example of the high aspirations we hold for all our schools.

“Their practices and commitment to providing outstanding cultural opportunities for students serve as an inspiration across our Trust and beyond. Congratulations to the entire team.”

Read more about how SWECET places creativity at the core of education here: https://swecet.org/News/Placing-creativity-at-the-core-of-education/

Find out more about William Edwards School here: https://williamedwards.org.uk/