We provided funds for 2 days of interactive story-telling workshops for pupils age 4-7 years led by trained performing artists  " Expressive Explorers " .The children took part in drama and music activities based on the stories  " Henny Penny " and Jack and the Beanstalk " . Songs were also used to encourage participation and enjoyment . Follow-up work in the classrooms included role-play and re-telling the stories in their own words .

Some remarks from the children : " I loved it when the giant fell from the beanstalk "

" I enjoyed the game when we stole the coins from the giant " 

" I liked the lady - she taught us the story and let us roll around to act out the story "

A class teacher said " It was very active and enjoyable for all " 

In March 2023, the Triple Crown Centre students ( ages 11-16 ) took part in a one-day workshop led by Aardman Productions . In the morning they learnt about the career opportunities and processes involve in animated film-making . Later they enjoyed making detailed models of ‘ Shaun the Sheep’ and ‘ Gromit’ to use in their own animations .

We sponsored a drama project run by Time 2Shine for Social Life Opportunities . Sessions were held at the Walnut Close Centre on alternate Tuesday evenings for young people with learning disabilities . It culminated in a performance of their version of “Jungle Book “ which everyone thoroughly enjoyed . Further images can be viewed in the Members Gallery .

In July 2022 we sponsored a week's Summer holiday Drama Workshop run by Time2Shine. There was a range of ages and abilities including pupils with additional needs. They enjoyed making their own costumes and props and at the end of the week they performed their version of  'Aladdin' to parents and carers . 

In 2021,we also supported the Royal Shakespeare Company workshops at Merstone.

In January 2022 the pupils performed an adapted version of "Macbeth" alongside other schools at the theatre in the Midlands Arts Centre in Birmingham.

Images of their performance can be viewed in our Members Gallery. 

In January 2022 a grant of £1000 was awarded to Sharmans Cross Junior School. All 420 pupils were involved in working alongside an Artist in Residence to design and make a mixed media mandala. The finished work reflects their school values of patience, responsibliity, independence, determination and empathy.

Further images are included in the Members Gallery . 

In January 2021 the society sponsored Arts Award Training for the Art lead teacher at Merstone School.This has led to the art curriculum being updated and enable pupils to work towards Arts Award certificates.We are delighted to hear how this professional development has already had a positive impact on the quality and provision of the arts for the pupils who have a range of learning difficulties. In the Summer term 2021, Upper School pupils ( ages 11-19  ) successfully achieved " Discover " level certificates. 

Images of Merstone pupils involved in various art activities can be viewed in the Members Gallery.