Unleashing Creativity: Northampton School’s Artistic Triumph

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In the heart of Northampton, a primary school is making waves in the world of education, using art as a tool to ignite the creative spark in their students. Kingsthorpe Village Primary School, under the guidance of Martine Soldano, the art lead and reception teacher, has been pioneering a series of art projects that have not only enthralled the students but also the local community.

Art has always held a special place in the curriculum at Kingsthorpe Village Primary, but over the past year, it has truly come into its own. Martine’s vision of thrusting art into the spotlight has been realised through an innovative ‘art takeover day’. This initiative, launched last July, saw the school’s regular timetable replaced with a day dedicated to art. Each class focused on an artist from a different country, tying in with the Olympics, and students created their own art inspired by what they had learned.

The result? A captivating display of creativity that left parents emotional and proud. “One parent said it made them emotional seeing the work and how well the children had done,” Martine shared.

The school’s focus on art didn’t stop there. In October, students explored Black History Month through the lens of art. They studied different black-British artists, understanding their creative process and responding to it through their own work. This approach not only fostered creativity but also sparked important conversations about identity and the significance of Black History Month.

Martine believes that engaging with art in this way is crucial for young people. “Some children need that break from the formality of learning and lessons, to relax and unwind for their mental health,” she explained. Art projects like these allow children to express their thoughts, feelings, and emotions, and let their creativity shine.

Kingsthorpe Village Primary School is committed to continuing its artistic journey, with more art projects planned for the future. From large-scale poppy displays for Remembrance Day to cartoon workshops with artist Kev Sutherland, the school is dedicated to providing a creative and inspiring learning environment for its students. The school’s art-centric approach is not just about fostering creativity; it’s about giving young people the opportunity to delve into the issues of both the present day and the past, and to express themselves in a safe and supportive environment.