PUPILS and staff at a school in Chard are celebrating after receiving a nationally recognised award for excellence in arts and cultural education.
The team at Manor Court Community Primary School have said they are proud to have achieved reaccreditation in the Artsmark at Gold standard.
A spokesperson for the school said the award ‘recognises the school’s commitment to developing a high-quality, carefully sequenced art curriculum’.
They added that the arts are embedded within the school’s development plan, with arts leads and senior leaders appointed to help students develop and improve.
Alongside this, Manor Court has a partnership with Westlands Entertainment Venue, Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra and its Elevate Programme, other schools, and the curriculum team at Somerset Council.
It also holds ‘much-loved’ annual art exhibitions each January at Chard Guildhall, showcasing pupils’ works and ‘bringing the community together’.
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Janet Morton, art teacher and arts lead, said: “We are incredibly proud of the rich and progressive arts curriculum we have built.
"Through ongoing CPD and shared expertise, there is a real understanding across the school of what high-quality art teaching and learning looks like, and that is reflected in the outcomes we see.”
Laura Hibbard, arts lead, added: “Our children are highly engaged in the arts, whether through lessons, exhibitions or performances.
"The Arts Council plays an active role in shaping events, and we see first-hand how creativity supports confidence, wellbeing and a genuine love of learning.”
Headteacher Luke Talmage said: “Achieving reaccreditation in Artsmark Gold reflects the dedication of our staff, governors and partners.
"The arts are central to our ethos — not only enriching the curriculum but also contributing to improved attendance and aspiration. We are excited to continue developing opportunities across music, dance and drama, and to inspire pupils about future careers in the creative industries.”
The school will now look to ‘build on its success’ by further strengthening inclusion, widening access and continuing to support other schools through collaboration and curriculum development.
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