We are thrilled to share that we have been awarded the prestigious Gold Artsmark Award in recognition of our rich, inclusive, and inspiring arts provision. This achievement reflects years of dedicated work from our pupils, staff and wider school community. Through creativity, collaboration and commitment, the arts have become an essential part of life at Rowner, offering every child the opportunity to express themselves, explore culture, and grow in confidence.

Highlights of Our Artsmark Journey
From graffiti art and sea shanties to plastic-sculpture and textile design, our curriculum is filled with diverse and engaging opportunities. Pupils have explored the work of BAME artists, connected with local creatives such as Pete Codling and Dan Williams, and even used art to discuss important social issues like climate change and equality.

We have also made fantastic use of our Trust network, working with specialist secondary colleagues, accessing an ‘Atelier’ for hands-on creative experiences, and participating in exciting projects like The Giant Sing and DanceLive! at Portsmouth Guildhall.

Inclusion and Wellbeing Through the Arts
With a higher-than-average number of children with SEND, inclusion is central to our arts curriculum. Our staff have undertaken training in ‘access strategies’, ensuring that every child has the tools to succeed in arts-based learning. From sculpture to song, we have seen incredible improvements in pupil confidence, emotional expression and teamwork.

Our weekly music appreciation and singing assemblies are a highlight for many, filling the hall with wonderful sounds.

A Culture of Creativity and Growth
The Gold Award also recognises how the arts have influenced our school culture and staff development. From curriculum design to CPD, we’ve worked hard to ensure that the arts are not ‘extras’, but central to how we learn and grow together.

We are proud to run a number of free clubs, including drama, art and DanceLive, so that every child has access to enrichment, regardless of background.

What’s Next?
Our journey doesn’t stop here. We’ll continue to champion creativity, build cultural links, and invest in our staff and pupils. We remain committed to embedding the arts across our curriculum, not just because they inspire creativity, but because they nurture wellbeing, self-belief and ambition.

Well done to our wonderful pupils, staff and community. This Gold Artsmark Award is yours to celebrate!