Artsmark Silver

Nicholas Breakspear awarded Artsmark Silver

Simine Wallace leading a workshop at the school

Arts Council England has awarded an Artsmark Silver to Nicholas Breakspear in recognition of the school’s commitment to, and excellence in, arts education.

Since Artsmark began 9 years ago, almost 10,000 awards have been made, with 1649 schools receiving the award this year.

Phil Jakszta, Headteacher of Nicholas Breakspear School in St. Albans, said:

“I’m delighted that the Arts Council has recognised Nicholas Breakspear’s dynamic arts education programme. Our students have really enjoyed working with painter, Simone Wallace and Mo Marijata, former member of the world famous band Osibisa, who have both lead workshops at the school, and I’d like to thank all our staff for their hard work in achieving this award.”

Alan Davey, Chief Executive, Arts Council England, said:

“Arts Council England is committed to great art for everyone and we believe that the earlier children are creatively inspired, the more likely they are to have a lifelong engagement with art."

Any school in England can apply for Artsmark at: www.artsmark.org.uk

Simone Wallace left the school four years ago, and gained a place at an Art College in Surrey. She is now an internationally renowned artist in her own right, selling and exhibiting work in Europe. Her trademark style is currently beautifully crafted black and white linear drawings of urban landscapes.

This is the work which the Year 13 students produced during Simone's workshop

Simone Wallace (left) with Year 13 students