The WEMA Cultural Education Hub gives every child in the region (including Bristol, BANES, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire) access to inspiring cultural activities, supporting them to achieve their aspirations and engage with a rich, creative curriculum.
Cultural Education Hub project in numbers:
- £310,000 in funding from West of England Combined Authority and Arts Council England.
- 9000 local students given access to creative experiences.
- 450 schools engaged in creative workshops or residencies.
- 300 teachers participating in Creative Professional Development sessions in a variety of creative subjects.
- Support for nearly 30 creative freelancers to work in education settings.
Launched in 2024, the Hub brings together schools, multi-academy trusts, cultural organisations, and creative practitioners to collaborate on high-quality arts opportunities for children and young people.
We support creative practitioners through:
- Funding Opportunities
Access grant funding to deliver inspiring workshops, residencies, and careers-focused activities in schools and education settings. - Professional Development & Resources
Take part in in-person and online training developed with education experts, designed to build your confidence and understanding of school environments. Our Creatives in Schools Toolkit also offers practical guidance, templates, and tips to support your work every step of the way
We support schools and education settings through:
- Creative Workshops
Book interactive workshops for your students, delivered by experienced practitioners in subjects such as drama, visual arts, and creative writing.
- Teacher CPD
Access high-quality professional development delivered by leading cultural organisations and facilitators, equipping staff to deliver inspiring, creative learning.
- Careers & Industry Connections
Opportunities and events that link schools with creative professionals and industry partners, offering students valuable insights into cultural careers and study pathways. - Creative Residencies
Opportunities to apply for longer-term residencies that place an artist in your school to address a specific need, driving meaningful and lasting change.
Contact
To find out more about how the WEMA Cultural Education Hub can support creative practitioners, please contact our Programme Lead Megan Clarke.
Funding
West of England Cultural Education Hub is supported through funding from the West of England Combined Authority and Arts Council England, and is a strand of the Culture West programme. The Hub is led by West of England Music and Arts, and supported by a steering group of schools, facilitators and cultural organisations.