The three-year evaluative 'Creative Collaborative' project led by Birmingham City University aims to build a pilot national cohort of Creativity Collaboratives.
Existing networks of schools within The Elliot Foundation Academy Trust have tested a range of innovative teaching practices for creativity to create system-wide change. Schools have collaborated with creative organisations and been empowered to integrate creative teaching styles into their lessons.
We live in an ever-changing world, where creativity is far more than a fun skill; it's essential. Teaching young people to think and work creatively helps them to solve problems, adapt to new challenges, and think outside the box. Beyond that, it builds confidence, nurtures self-expression, and helps students discover their passions. But how does a school actively inject creativity into the teaching process?
The ‘Creative Collaborative’ research project, led by Birmingham City University, is exploring just that. Aiming to create a model for creative education, researchers are working with schools in the The Elliot Foundation Academy Trust, to embed innovative teaching methods into the curriculum.
Schools have partnered with arts organisations such as Open Theatre, Stan’s Café and SAMPAD, and in turn have been empowered to try out new styles of teaching, including non-verbal practices that encourage students to express themselves in unique ways.
For example, Billesley Primary School in Birmingham has focused on creative teaching by tapping into local heritage and identity.
Led by BCU experts Dr Victoria Kinsella-Hadjinestoros, Associate Professor of Arts, Creativity and Education and Dr Anthony Anderson, Associate Professor in Music Education, the project is building a toolkit that any school can use to embed creativity in their classrooms.
Over three years, it has engaged over 1,000 children, including many from disadvantaged backgrounds or with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
With an emphasis on inclusivity, the project ensures that every child can explore their creative potential.
Lessons learned are currently being shared across schools in the Elliot Foundation Academy Trust network and will also go on to expand creative teaching methods at the national level.
With ongoing support from Arts Council England, the tools and strategies developed through the Creativity Collaborative will continue to shape classrooms long after the project ends.
This initiative shows how creativity can be woven into everyday learning, empowering students and teachers alike. Building creative teaching into the very heart of the curriculum can better equip students for critical thinking, solving problems, and accepting with confidence whatever the future might hold in store.