Since leaving full-time teaching, Helen has delivered many art and craft projects in Cumbria’s schools. While each project is unique, all aim to raise awareness of environmental issues, celebrate the beauty and diversity of nature, and boost children’s confidence as they learn new skills.
Types of projects include:
Willow Sculptures
Group work to create large willow sculptures tied in to a theme they are studying for example Pollinators at Abbeytown and marine life at Silloth.
Wooden sound walks
A popular option is the creation of immersive wooden sound walks for schools where children can explore sounds, how they are made and work on the science of sound.
Living willow sculptures
A living willow sculpture is a striking addition to school grounds and Helen has created many across the county. From woven tunnels to domes, sculptures are best done during the spring when the willow is just beginning to grow.
Please note: living willow sculptures need to be planned in the autumn before planting to ensure willow is available. Please contact Helen well in advance if you would like to weave a living willow sculpture in your grounds.
Murals
Brighten up school grounds with colourful painted murals, designed using the children’s own pictures and ideas. Children love being fully involved in both the design and painting stages of the work.
Themes for the murals are the school’s choice but Helen likes to do environmental themes, discussing issues these raise with the children as part of the project.
Recent mural projects include :
- Netherton School, Maryport – 4 murals, 4 year groups, 4 themes.
- Arlecdon Primary School – jungle and school sports.
- Montreal Primary School – woodland wildlife in the style of Franz Marc.
- Millom School – local wildlife.
- Ulverston School – local history.
- Silloth Primary school – woodland mural in playground
Other grounds development ideas could include outdoor seating such as log benches and hazel stick seats, sensory trails and wooden sculptures.
Forest Schools
With its roots in Scandinavia, the learner-centred Forest Schools approach has become more and more popular across the UK. Designed to help children develop an understanding of the environment around them, using a woodland setting to explore both the world around them and their own skills and personal development.
As a fully trained and experienced Forest Schools practictioner, Helen can design a programme of activities to suit the children’s needs and the outdoor area we work in.
Please contact Helen to discuss in more detail your ideas for your school.