The Mersey Gateway Project

Halton schools drive innovative new creative programme’s success

June 14, 2017Chris SealeyNews

The Mersey Gateway Project’s Creative Connections scheme, which partners teachers with local artists, has been a big success with local schools in Halton.

The programme, which is supported by Merseylink – the company building the new Mersey Gateway bridge – is providing teachers with an opportunity to further their own skills and enhance their work with local school children.

Neil Wilcock, Employment and Skills Co-ordinator with Merseylink, said: “The Creative Connections sessions have been a great success, and will continue to run this summer. So far 71% of Halton’s schools have been involved.”

“The aim is to give local teachers a different perspective on art and provide practical examples of work they can complete in class with children, as well as assistance with sourcing materials.

“Teachers have the opportunity to take part in a two-hour sessions with an artist and to try out new techniques that they can pass on to their pupils, for example in wall murals or wire sculpture.”

In June and July there will be eight training opportunities. The sessions are free and are sponsored by Merseylink.

Cllr Rob Polhill, Leader of Halton Borough Council said that this was another example of Merseylink’s commitment to the local community and to helping schools and teachers in the borough learn new skills that could help their pupils’ development.

“The majority of schools in Halton have now taken part in the Creative Connections CPD programme. That’s great news for local education and even better news for schoolchildren.

“This scheme gives teachers exposure to art techniques and skills they may not be familiar with and helps to broaden their, and their pupils’, experience and understanding of art.”

If you would like to participate, or if you know a primary school teacher in Halton who is interested, you can contact: 0151 511 7213.

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