Emerald Explorers Expression of Interest
Emerald Explorers is a rich and diverse programme of activities to improve wellbeing and pride of place, through creativity and connecting with nature. This programme is inspired by the many green spaces of Gateshead and the creativity of the people who live, work and learn here.
The programme takes inspiration from the four seasons, encouraging communities to explore their local area throughout the year, developing creativity by working with Gateshead artists, cultural and environmental partners. Find out more about the work.
After a very successful two years, Gateshead Council's Arts Development Team and Gateshead Culture in Education Partnership (GCEP) have secured further funding from HM Government's UK Shared Prosperity Fund to continue this work in schools across the borough.
We are delighted to invite Gateshead primary schools to apply to take part in a new series of workshops which will take place between September - March 26.
What the four selected schools will get:
5 sessions with a professional artist
a chance to explore your local green space and/or enhance existing forest school provision
access to high quality CPD for teachers
automatic membership of our Cultural Ambassador scheme, providing the opportunity to share practice and case studies across the GCEP network of schools and cultural partners
The project is valued at approx. £1500 per school although thanks to UK Government's Shared Prosperity Fund, there is no charge to schools for taking part.
What you need to do:
Please fill in the expression of interest form by 5pm on 4 July 2025.
The main point of contact for the project will need to be available for planning meetings and co-ordinating dates/workshops. This person will become your school's Cultural Ambassador, the first point of contact for cultural activities and opportunities in school.
Each school's workshop programme will be bespoke.
The artists we contract are from a range of disciplines including creative writing, painting, sculpture, drawing.
We are able to work with children of any age.
Workshops can take place in a local green space, forest school area or classroom.
Complete the Expression of Interest form (opens new window)
If for any reason you can't access the form, please answer the following questions in an email to susanmulholland@gateshead.gov.uk
Please use "Emerald Explorers 25/26" in the subject line.
School name
Main point of contact
Named contact's email address
Why would this project be beneficial for your pupils, staff and wider community?
Please give us some additional information about your school community eg - EAL, % free school meals
What's the closest park or green space within walking distance of school?
Is there a particular age group or Key Stage that you'd like us to work with? (It's ok if you don't have a preference)
Have you had any recent artist activity in school?
Is there any area of enquiry or interest that you'd like to explore via this project?
Is there a local community group or setting that you would already have a connection with or would be interested in working with via this project?
If you have any questions please email Susan Mulholland, Creative Producer, susanmulholland@gateshead.gov.uk
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