Art, Design and Media December update

I hope you are all doing well and enjoying the school year so far. As we enter December, I wanted to share some key updates and opportunities for the new year. This update includes training and events to enhance your teaching as well as new support resource and preparation for upcoming assessments. 

As we approach the end of the year, I would like to take this opportunity to wish you a restful December break. This is a time for rejuvenation and reflection, and I hope you are able to take some well-deserved time off to recharge for the upcoming year. 

Click on the link to your sector to read relevant updates for your qualification(s):

   
  Helpful Resources and Inspiration

Pearson National Teaching Awards

According to the 2024 Pearson School Report 66% of educators went into teaching to make a difference to pupils' lives. It's our time to celebrate the incredible impact educators make every day.

Enter an inspiring colleague or team for the 2025 Pearson National Teaching Awards today! Deadline for entries is 31 December 2024.

Nominate an inspiring colleague or team!

V&A Innovate

V&A Innovate is an annual National Schools Challenge, asking students in years 7, 8 and 9 to work in teams of 4 – 6 to design a solution to a real-world problem. Deadline for entry is 10 January 2025.

Learn more and register to take part

Become a Creativity Champion

64 Million Artists (supported by Pearson) have created a resource pack for schools to support delivery of The January Challenge 2025. This initiative will help more students, and more teachers feel creative at school, creating a stronger sense of community, agency, wellbeing, and a capacity to engage with the curriculum. We hope a creative January inspires a creative February and beyond!

Learn more about The January Challenge

Download the Creativity Champions pack for schools

Barbara Walker at the Whitworth, Manchester

The first major survey exhibition by British artist Barbara Walker, charts her compelling figurative practice from 1990s to today. 'Being Here' presents over 70 extraordinary artworks, including rarely seen paintings. 

This exhibition runs until 26 January 2025.

Learn more about Barbara Walker and the exhibition

Zanele Muholi at Tate Modern, London

Zanele Muholi is one of the most acclaimed photographers working today, and their work has been exhibited all over the world. With over 260 photographs, this major exhibition presents the full breadth of their career to date.

This exhibition runs until 26 January 2025.

Learn more about Zanele Muholi and the exhibition

Art Bytes

Art Bytes is a national art and EdTech programme for primary, secondary and SEND schools, combining an inter-school art competition with a bespoke virtual gallery. It aims to nurture talent, raise ambition and develop confidence, as well as support mental health and help develop vital skills for future employment.

Learn more about Art Bytes 

Play Your Way Into Production

Find out what it’s like to be a newbie on a film/TV set!

Play Your Way Into Production is a free new game to give people an insight into the TV/film industry. Players have the opportunity to explore a TV/film set to find out more about how things work and the wide range of jobs available.

Learn more about Play Your Way Into Production

Art, Craft and Design Education: A Guide for Governing Boards

Art, Craft and Design Education, a guide for Governor and Trustees will help explain the vital role governors have in championing and advocating for high-quality art and design education. The guide was created by NSEAD in partnership with Arts Council England and National Governors' Association.

Access the Art, Craft and Design Education guide