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Training

Three Ways In to Creative Arts Training in the Early Years

This project is the culmination of a three-phase action research project devised and managed by Discover, from April 2005 to June 2008. The project's starting point was to look at how artists and early years practioners (EYPs) can work together to embed creativity in early years settings - particularly to explore the role training can play in increasing skills, understanding and commitment to creativity within early years settings, in particular to focus on developing effective training models for artists, childcare providers and early years educators.

 

In the first phase Discover conducted a review of the creative training needs of London based early years practitioners and artists. The review focused on three London boroughs and identified a number of elements that contributed to training having a sustained impact. The review recommended four models to pilot.

Download a copy of the Initial Review of Ways In here

In the second phase Discover piloted three of the fouor models during the academic year 2006/2007.

The three models focused on different levels of expertise and confidence within early years settings.

  • Creativity Tastes is a partnership with Lambeth Education Action Zone to enable practitioners and children in early years settings to learn specific arts skills.
  • Arts Educator will involve six artists and six Newham Children’s Centres teachers working together over an academic year to explore ideas and develop practice together. The aim is to embed a specific art form within the children’s Centre’s and satellite childcare providers.
  • Artists Training – to give artists the skills, knowledge and confidence to work with young children and their families. Fifteen artists will participate in a four month programme thatw includes seminars, practical workshops, a placement and mentor.

Each of the three models was evalulated individually and against each other. The overarching aim of the evaluation was to look at process, impact and benefits of the three models of training on the artists, early years practitioners and early years settings. Although an analysis of child-related outcomes was not one of the evaluation's primary aims, the publication of DCFS Early Years Foundation Stage, as helped Discover to reflect on, and consider the benefits the models brought to, children in the settings.

Download a copy of the full Three Ways in to Creative Arts Training in the Early Years

Download an executive summary of Three Ways in to Creative Arts Training in the Early Years

Discover provides a range of training courses that can be tailored to meet the needs of your organisation and staff. We devise and deliver all kinds of training including short courses, twilight sessions, Inset training and conferences, either at your venue or at Discover.

We aim to enable adults to develop the skills and awareness to facilitate children’s creative expression. Our courses are fun and informal, designed to encourage active participation and value each person's experience.

Some of the areas we specialize in include:

  • Encouraging Creativity
  • Dance & Movement
  • 2D & 3D Visual Arts
  • Playing with Music  
  • Consulting with Children
  • Story Building Techniques
  • Drama & Role Play
  • Creative Writing through Stories
  • Outdoor Play
  • Designing Spaces for and with Children

All our training can be adapted according to the age range of the children that you are working with.
If you would like more information about training please contact Daniele Duggan, Community and Education Manager at daniele.d@discover.org.uk or 020 8536 5546.