Culture Clubs is a pilot project that aims to raise the creative career aspirations for students between years 9-11. In partnership with the University of Bedfordshire, we are working with Goldington Academy, Mark Rutherford and Oak Bank School to develop young people’s skills in creative subjects and increase their awareness of pathways into the cultural sector. 

Recent research shows that “people from more privileged backgrounds are twice as likely to be employed in the cultural sector”. For example, research from the Creative Industries Policy and Evidence Centre states that in the ‘Music, Performing and Visual Arts’ 22% of the workforce are from working-class backgrounds, in contrast to 60% from more ‘privileged backgrounds. Moreover, the government’s “Taking Part Survey” indicates that students in state schools are less likely to participate in theatre and drama subjects. Culture Clubs aims to raise the creative career aspirations for students between years 9 – 11.  

Over the course of 6 weeks, students from Goldington Academy, Mark Rutherford and Oak Bank School will collaborate on a creative project. Each student will take a role that represents a role in the creative industry. This will help students understand what roles are available to them and gain insight into what skills are needed to fulfil such roles. They will work collaboratively with an artist to gain experience working with a professional.

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Goldington Academy: 

Students from Goldington Academy will be collaborating with local illustrator Katie Allen and local poet Anthea Davis-Barcley to create a zine. This project will give students insight into careers in creative writing, marketing, publishing, graphic design, and illustration 

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Mark Rutherford: 

Students from Mark Rutherford will be making a short film with Segun Oguntola from Junior Film Makers. This opportunity will give students an understanding of how to produce creative content, as well as providing them with creative skills such as storytelling and filming. 

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Oakbank School: 

Students from Oak Bank School will be working with local artist Richard Mann to produce their own short film. This collaborative project will allow the students to experience the process of film production and work closely with an experienced multi-disciplinary artist.  

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