A New Approach to Creative Learning at York High School

A unique learning method to sit alongside the current curriculum was introduced at York High School this past June.

Art of Protest, A York-based company specialising in public art and creative education is taking a unique and especially effective approach with their creative learning workshops by immersing students into the wonderful world of artistic exploration.

Through a creative learning approach took 15 students on a journey where they first experienced a hands-on stencil and spray paint workshop, each crafting their own unique piece of art. For many students, this was their first time using spray paint as a medium. Initially, some were apprehensive, unsure of how to control the spray or worried about making mistakes. However, they were encouraged to embrace mistakes as a natural and valuable part of the creative process. This emphasis on experimentation and learning from errors allowed students to approach their work with a sense of freedom and curiosity.

As they experimented with different techniques and saw their mistakes transform into unique artistic elements, their confidence grew. This newfound confidence wasn't just limited to their art; it permeated other aspects of their learning and self-expression. Students came away from the workshop with a new set of skills, not just in terms of handling spray paint, but also in terms of problem-solving, perseverance, and creative thinking.

Art of Protest creative director and worksop lead, Jeff Clark, explained “There’s no such thing as a mistake here because it doesn’t really matter how you do it as long as you end up with something you’re happy with or you enjoyed the experience of doing it.”

The positive impact of the workshops extended beyond individual creations. After crafting their own A4 canvases to take home, students broke into groups to design and paint three vibrant classroom murals. These collaborative projects required them to communicate effectively, delegate tasks, and blend their individual styles into a cohesive piece. The murals became a source of pride for the entire school community, a testament to the student's hard work and creativity.

Jeff explained to the students: “You guys are going to bring this to life in a three-dimensional way which is going to be so amazing. And you’re responsible for that, nobody else, we’re just helping you guide you along the way.“

York High School’s Teachers and faculty were thrilled with the transformation they witnessed. Head of Art, Vicky Turner said “These creative learning opportunities are really valuable because they give the kids a lot more freedom than they would have in the classroom. You know, spray painting - amazing.”

Students, especially those with lower attention spans and learning difficulties, came out of their shells. The hands-on, engaging nature of the workshops captured their interest and kept them focused.

One student said “These workshops push us to think out of the box and then slick a really new experience for me.” Another student said ”I’d love to have more stuff like this. I’ve not had that long of experiencing it and I’m already loving it already.”

For some, it was the first time they felt truly engaged in a school activity. Teachers noted how students who typically struggled in a traditional classroom setting thrived in this more dynamic and interactive environment.

These workshops don’t just teach students how to create art; they teach them to believe in their abilities and to see value in the creative process. By providing a playful learning environment, we empower these young minds by strengthening their existing skills to unlock their creative and cognitive potential.

Rachel Lancaster, Head of Performing Arts shared her thoughts, “It’s important to create creative thinkers. Too often in our society we are churning out people who can’t think creatively or haven’t had an outlet to think creatively.”

Headteacher Rob Simms said “Showing resilience and problem-solving and having the aspiration to create something that’s going to be beautiful at the end of the day allows students to say that’s my wall. What’s really important is that they’ve got different ways that students can express themselves. It’s not always down that very narrow route that a lot of education is based upon. The creative skills and the ability to express yourself without limits are excellent for those kids.”

This innovative approach incorporated AOP’s Learning Model: The Five C’s, and truly transformed students from being uncertain, but curious, to becoming confident and capable, showcasing the impact of unconventional art education. At the centre of it were brains bursting with creativity. These brains had been there all along, they just needed the right guidance and inspiration to light the fire. The success of these workshops has inspired us to continue developing programmes that challenge traditional learning methods, providing students