Teach Primary Issue 18.6

www.teachwire.net | 15 benefits associated with arts education, such as improved critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and academic performance. Notably, expressive arts education is often prioritised in the independent school sector, further widening the gap between different socio-economic groups. The data drought There’s also an evidence gap. It’s particularly difficult to understand the state of arts education in primary schools, as they don’t have the qualifications data that is available for the secondary sector. What our sector needs is clear figures on the number of arts specialists in primary schools, and how many hours are spent on each national curriculum area. Alongside policymakers and civil servants, schools also have a role in addressing the existing cultural deficit. They’re not just places of academic learning; they are also spaces where children develop holistically, gaining I n the current educational climate, primary schools face immense pressure to meet academic targets, which often leads to the unfortunate sidelining of arts and cultural education. The Cultural Learning Alliance’s annual Report Card 2024 revealed the profound impact this de-prioritisation has had over the past decade – the effects of which are particularly pronounced in schools serving disadvantaged communities ( tinyurl.com/tp-ReportCard ) . Why the gap matters The ‘enrichment gap’ refers to the disparity in access to arts and cultural experiences between children from different socio-economic backgrounds. This divide has far-reaching implications. Children who lack exposure to the arts miss out on critical opportunities for creative expression, cultural awareness, and emotional development. They are also deprived of the numerous cognitive skills and experiences that shape their future. By integrating arts and cultural education into the curriculum, schools can play a pivotal role in levelling inequalities, ensuring that all children, regardless of background, have access to essential enriching experiences. An arts-rich education supports children’s health and wellbeing and promotes the development of essential skills for work and life. The expressive arts can inject awe and wonder into curriculums, fostering curiosity and a love for learning that extends beyond the classroom. Partnerships with artists and cultural organisations introduce children to diverse creative role-models, raising aspirations, opening minds and helping children from all backgrounds to flourish. Arts-confident schools Despite current accountability measures that often work against arts subjects, some schools continue to value and prioritise the arts as essential to a broad and balanced curriculum. In fact, there are numerous examples of primary and secondary schools across England that offer robust arts education. These ‘arts-confident’ schools often become ‘arts-rich’ – achieving high performance across all areas. Confident decision-making is a key factor, so it is vital for school and MAT leaders to truly believe in the value of the arts and their impact on fostering a high-functioning learning environment. By prioritising the expressive arts, school leaders can help close the enrichment gap, foster creativity, and ensure that all children receive the well-rounded education they deserve. Politicians, education policymakers, and sector leaders must work together to establish and adhere to a clear set of educational purposes that encompass the arts. As primary educators, it is our responsibility to champion this cause for the benefit of our pupils, and the future of our society. So, the time to act is now—let’s ensure that every child has access to the transformational power of arts and culture. You can get started by signing up to the CLA at culturallearn- ingalliance.org.uk to lend your weight to its work and receive all the latest arts education news. TP David is headteacher at The Oaks Primary School, Ellesmere Port and a trustee and SLiCE (specialist leader of education) at cultural education charity, Curious Minds. He was named Headteacher of the Year at the 2019 Cheshire Schools Awards. We need to prioritise arts and cultural education at primary level, says DavidWearing David Wearing The widening enrichment gap must go VO I C E S