We are delighted to have been re-accredited with the Artsmark Gold Award in Summer 2026.

Achieving Artsmark Gold reflects a sustained commitment to creative education. The process begins with a Statement of Commitment, which outlines a school's ambitions and priorities for a two-year development period. This is followed by a Statement of Impact, which evaluates progress, evidences outcomes and demonstrates the difference these initiatives have made to students and the wider school community.

Comments from the judges included: 

• "Arts and culture continue to flourish at your school."
• "Your focus on inclusion throughout this Artsmark journey has had a positive impact on targeted groups of students."
• "You are now locally recognised for strong male involvement in the arts with greater number of boys taking part in school concerts and productions."
• "You have positioned the school at the heart of the community in relation to the arts. The Summer Sizzler is a strong example of how you have engaged a wide range of community members."
• "The breadth of your arts and cultural offer is a further strength, providing students with new and exciting learning opportunities supported by your extensive collaborations."

 At The Friary School, we believe that arts and cultural education play a vital role in supporting students' wellbeing, confidence and personal development. Through creative experiences, young people discover their talents, develop their voice and build the communication, collaboration and problem-solving skills that will serve them throughout their lives.

The arts also help students engage with the rich history, identity and culture of our society, whether through music, drama, visual arts or performance. Beyond this, creativity is a skill that transcends artistic disciplines. The ability to think imaginatively, explore new ideas and see challenges from different perspectives underpins success across all fields, from science and engineering to business and innovation.

Our curriculum seeks to inspire both personal and creative growth through meaningful opportunities for students to showcase their talents and achievements. These may include exhibiting artwork to the public, performing on stage before large audiences, or taking part in music events that bring communities together. Such experiences develop confidence, resilience and ambition while creating lasting memories for students and their families.

The Artsmark framework helps us to continually review, strengthen and extend these opportunities, ensuring that creativity remains at the heart of school life and that every student can experience the transformative power of the arts.