Arts education – Can Labour change the game?

Written by Terence Rodia, founder of YOU Management

Since 2010, arts education in England has witnessed a dramatic decline, with enrolment in arts and culture subjects falling by 47 per cent at GCSE and 29 per cent at A-level. This statistic has been further fuelled by the previous administration of the Conservatives, whose educational focus shifted markedly towards technology and STEM subjects, driven by an ambition to position the UK as the next ‘Silicon Valley’. This focus not only ignored the relevance of arts education but also raised concerns among educators and cultural advocates about the long-term implications for creativity and cultural literacy among students.

While a new Labour government has now made its way into office, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer vowing to ‘put creativity at the heart of the curriculum’, we are yet to see the fruits of these promises. With September vastly approaching, a new school year is looming, making now a pivotal time to explore the important role of arts education and how we can encourage and inspire the next generation of performers.

The important role of arts education

Arts education plays a crucial role in the development of young people, fostering innovation and imagination while nurturing skills that enhance perception, understanding, productivity, and well-being. These skills are essential for character development and confidence and have even been associated with improving speaking conditions often associated with young people and children, such as lisps and stammers, by using mediums such as drama.

The impact on personal development for students is another undeniable benefit. According to a study by The Australian Theatre for Young People, 89 per cent of participants reported increased self-confidence and 94 per cent noted an overall boost in well-being after engaging in drama programmes. Additionally, the Arts Council England’s research found that schools incorporating arts across the curriculum consistently achieve higher average reading and mathematics scores compared to those that do not, demonstrating the broader academic benefits of arts education.

What is needed from the Government for the national curriculum?

To change the trajectory of the arts, the government must integrate it more robustly into the national curriculum. This includes allocating sufficient funding to ensure schools can offer comprehensive arts programmes, including visual arts, music, drama, and dance.

Additionally, incorporating mandatory arts education at all levels of schooling can help foster a more inclusive and diverse range of talents, ensuring every student has the opportunity to explore and develop their creative abilities.

More support for community clubs and organisations  

Community clubs and organisations are not only great resources of entertainment for young people during the evening and summer holidays, they are also essential for providing opportunities to engage in the arts.

From Brownies and amateur dramatics to painting and dance classes, these groups are crucial in keeping young people engaged and allowing them to express themselves in a safe learning environment outside of school.  These community resources can offer additional programmes that cater to a wide range of interests and skill levels, from beginner workshops to advanced training.

To ensure the longevity of these clubs, there needs to be increased funding and support for organisations to help eliminate barriers to participation, such as cost and accessibility. This will ensure all young people, regardless of their background, have the chance to benefit from arts education.

Encouragement from the industry

Retired professionals, educational lecturers, agents, casting directors and professional artists are the best resource for supporting young people and guiding them on how to progress and succeed in an arts focussed career. By actively engaging with schools and community organisations, industry professionals can provide mentorship, guidance and insights which can inspire and ignite a passion for the arts in young people.

There needs to be a focus on providing more programmes that bring artists, musicians, actors, and other creatives into classrooms, allowing professionals and young people to collaborate and provide a first-hand insight into the world of the arts as a career path. Additionally, partnerships between schools and arts organisations can facilitate internships, workshops, and performance opportunities, giving students practical experience and a platform to showcase their talents.

Time for change

As the new school year approaches, it is crucial to recognise and enhance the role of arts education in developing the next generation of creative thinkers and performers.

By increasing government support for arts in the national curriculum and access to community arts programmes, and leveraging the expertise of industry professionals, we can create an environment where young people are encouraged and inspired to pursue their passions in the arts. This holistic approach will not only benefit individual students but also contribute to a more vibrant, innovative, and culturally rich society.