The Brixton Learning Collaborative (BLC), in partnership with the local Windmill Cluster of schools, is one of six UK organisations this year to receive a major grant to develop arts-based learning.
BLC and the Windmill cluster, which cover 25 local schools and children’s centres supporting pupils, staff, families and the local community through partnership working, will get about £150,000 from the Paul Hamlyn Foundation to investigate the impact of using opera and visual arts to develop growth mindsets among pupils.
It will involve Brixton’s Pegasus Opera company and explore how arts-based learning can encourage higher-order questioning, risk-taking and problem-solving skills to raise attainment for pupils who experience disadvantage.
Acclaimed South London artist Liz Atkin will also work with teachers as they experiment and take risks alongside their pupils.
The aim is to create “a cycle of analysis, experimentation, reflection, refinement and application”.
The project will start in September.
Brixton Learning Collaborative | Windmill cluster
The Paul Hamlyn Foundation was established by publisher and philanthropist Paul Hamlyn in 1987. On his death in 2001, he left most of his estate to the Foundation, creating one of the largest independent grant-making foundations in the UK. Its mission is to help people overcome disadvantage and lack of opportunity, so that they can realise their potential and enjoy fulfilling and creative lives. It has a particular interest in supporting young people and a strong belief in the importance of the arts.
