Director's Office

 

County Hall

 

Martineau Lane

 

Norwich

 

NR1 2DL

 

 

 

Minicom: (01603) 223833

 

Patrice Baldwin

NEAS/PB/JCR

20 September 2001

01603 433276

patrice.baldwin.edu@norfolk.gov.uk

To: Headteachers of All Schools

Dear Headteacher

THE ARTSMARK AWARD (ROUND 2)

The Artsmark award for schools was launched earlier this year by the Arts Council of England. It has the support of the QCA, the DCMS and DfES. In the first round of applications, several Norfolk schools were successful: Caister High Foundation School (Artsmark Silver), Northgate High School (Artsmark Silver), Reepham High School (Artsmark) and Tilney St Lawrence (Artsmark). Applications for Round 2 opened on 10th September and application materials may be downloaded from the Artsmark website www.artsmark.org.uk. Applications from primary and special schools are being particularly encouraged.

Applying for Artsmark involves the school in a school led arts self-audit and review. It is a valuable process for all schools to undertake, whether or not an application is submitted subsequently. A range of application forms will enable all types of schools to identify their strengths in the arts and highlight areas for further development. Schools match their arts provision against one of three standards, basic, silver or gold. We are encouraging schools to engage with this arts self review process, as it will contribute to planned development in the arts and hopefully lead to improved provision and the raising of standards. It is also a valuable opportunity to recognise and celebrate existing good practice and provision in Norfolk schools.

The Artsmark process also helps the LEA and Arts Council of England to:

Schools are requested to approach the LEA Adviser for the Promotion of the Arts in Schools, for a supporting reference and to send a copy of the completed application form to assist this process. The Artsmark Helpline, telephone number is 0800 0560 196.

The closing date for this round of applications is 10th December 2001. From 2002 there will be an annual opportunity to apply. The Artsmark, once awarded is valid for three years.

Yours sincerely

DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION