11/01/07 - Cllr Tomlinson Welcomes Rotary Backing For New Arts Qualifications

Rotary backs new arts qualification for young people in Swindon

Swindon and Thamesdown Rotary Club has pledged financial support to help young people take part in a new national arts award scheme.

The Arts Award is a national qualification to encourage people aged between 11 and 25 develop learning and leadership skills through participation in arts activities.

Like the Duke of Edinburgh Award, the Arts Award can be taken at bronze, silver and gold levels. The qualification will be recognised by colleges, universities and employers throughout the UK.

Artsmad, part of Swindon Borough Council's arts services, is the agency for children, young people and the arts.

It will be working in partnership with Swindon Youth Service, secondary schools and arts organisations to encourage the borough’s young people to take part in the scheme. Artsmad (Arts Make A Difference) gives youngsters year-round workshops led by professional artists and projects for schools.

Swindon and Thamesdown Rotary is the first organisation in the country to offer financial support to the local roll out of the Arts Award.  Swindon has established a link between the Rotary and the Arts Award which has now been replicated in other areas of the country.

Swindon and Thamesdown Rotary Club is setting up a bursary fund to cover the costs of packs and moderation for those who cannot afford to take part. 

Swindon Borough Council cabinet member for recreation, leisure and culture, Cllr Justin Tomlinson, said: “We are thrilled to be working in partnership with the Rotary Club. This fund will make a real difference to young people who might not otherwise be able take part in this excellent new scheme.  We look forward to tracking the progress of participants.

“This Award will be relevant to young filmmakers, musicians, artists, dancers, actors – in fact anyone who enjoys expressing themselves creatively.”

Bob Barrett, of the Rotary Club of Swindon Thamesdown, said: “We are always working in the background to support local community activities and are delighted to be supporting a scheme for young people such as this."

The first certificates will be presented in Swindon in the summer at an awards ceremony.