Artsmark Gold has been awarded to Brockenhurst College for its commitment to, and excellence in, arts and cultural education.

Delivered by Trinity College London, Artsmark is the Arts Council England’s flagship programme which enables schools and other organisations to evaluate, strengthen and celebrate their arts and cultural provision. Brock achieved this nationally-recognised status after demonstrating a passion and dedication in the provision of arts programmes, creative projects and upholding cultural awareness in order to have a positive effect on students’ learning attitudes, aspirations, confidence and engagement.

Speaking of the award, Dominic Chapman, Head of Division at Brockenhurst College, said: “Arts are an intrinsic part of life at Brock and at the heart of what we do; we aim to provide all students with an appreciation of what it is to be creative, as this is an invaluable skill that extends to many areas of education and life beyond, particularly as students look to progress to higher education or employment.”

Investment in the arts at Brock has been considerable in recent years and is a real indication of how highly the College values its offering in the creative area. Its wide-ranging provision and highly professional standards are demonstrated with a series of pivotal artistic events and showcases throughout the academic year, including the annual Visual Arts & Photomedia show, which presents student’s work to members of the public, along with many enrichment activities such as Black Sheep records and the annual student production. The College now joins a group of only 16 other FE colleges in the UK who have been granted the Gold level of commendation.

Brockenhurst College Principal Di Roberts said: “I’m delighted that our arts education offer has been nationally recognised.”