WIREDGOV

From April Arts Council England, in association with Trinity College London, is launching two brand new levels of Arts Award open to children and young people aged seven or over. The Arts Award scheme, which supports young people who want to deepen their engagement with the arts, previously only offered opportunities for children over 11 years of age. 

Those interested in running Arts Award for ages seven and upwards can now book to train as Discover and Explore advisers.

Discover, an introductory level, and Explore, accredited at Entry Level 3 on the Qualifications and Credit Framework (QCF), will complement Arts Award Bronze, Silver and Gold (at Levels 1, 2 and 3 on the QCF) that recognise the personal creative development of young people. The development of the new awards follows a successful pilot involving 123 organisations across the country.

Laura Gander-Howe, Arts Council Director or Learning and Skills, said: 'Arts Council England has seen the demand for Arts Award to reach the younger age group grow and grow, and are really delighted to see the new levels get off the ground and arts organisations and schools start to deliver. It's fantastic that young people can now follow their Arts Award journey from 7-25.'

Visit the Arts Award website for information on how to train to deliver the award.