Talented youngsters take centre stage

Graffiti artwork designed by primary school pupils took centre stage at a showcase.

The 73 children spent nine weeks working on a variety of projects at Bingham’s Toot Hill School, with help from professional art tutors.

In 2003, the school was granted specialist status in visual arts and launched its junior arts academy, which runs creative workshops for its 11 feeder primary schools.

Each term ends with a celebratory show of the work produced.

Last week youngsters performed their dance, music, and drama pieces to each other and the art group displayed their graffiti work in the school theatre.

Pupils involved were from Archbishop Cranmer primary, Aslockton; All Saints’ primary, Elston; Flintham primary and Orston primary schools.

The junior arts academy coordinator, Mrs Jude Wills, said the work was based on a desert island theme and included making miniature islands from clay, silk painting island creatures, and mask and puppet making.

The youngsters were helped by community artist Miss Rachel Scanlon, graffiti artist Mr Nathan Bainbridge, and art teacher Miss Carol Dunn.

The showcase also included a creative gameshow by the drama group, Samanya, samba drumming led by professional artist Mr Chris Lewis-Jones, and a street dance display choreographed by professional street dancer Mr Leo Jordan.