Bexhill High gets top award

Artsmark is the national arts award for schools which demonstrate a commitment to developing their arts provision '“ from art and design to music, dance to drama, design to literature.

The scheme also encourages schools to work in partnership with artists and arts organisations.

The Arts Council says the arts can transform lives and raise aspirations and improving opportunities for young people and their local communities to engage with the arts is a key priority for the Arts Council.

Jo Symons, learning leader for expressive arts at Bexhill High, said: 'I am thrilled that the Arts Council has recognised the commitment Bexhill High are making to the arts.

"There is a huge amount of activity going on here, and an awful lot of talent in a wide range of arts specialisms.

"We are fortunate to have strong links with places such as the De La Warr Pavilion, and this has helped us provide students with opportunities to extend their experience in arts subjects away from the classroom.

"This award is the result of much hard work and dedication by staff and students and I am very much looking forward to attending the award ceremony at The Capitol Theatre in Horsham on June 28, to see our students receive their Artsmark Award.

School principal Mike Conn said he is "delighted" with the award.

"This recognises the tremendous work done by students and staff in the field of the Arts. I congratulate them all on this wonderful achievement".

Artsmark is the national scheme developed by the Arts Council England in partnership with the Department for Culture, Media And Sport, the Department of Education and Skills, QCA and Ofsted.

A recent report, The Impact of Artsmark on schools in England found that Artsmark schools frequently identified an increase in the range of arts provision and a better profile in the local community.

The award is valid for three years, after which schools must reapply, showing their continued commitment to the arts.