What could the future of arts in schools look like?- Samantha Mathews – Director and Louise Campbell – School Partnerships Manager from the Artis Foundation – (Keynote Speech)
Summary of Keynote
- Overview of current challenges in arts education, referencing the Arts in Schools 2023 report.
- Importance of arts education for children and young people.
- Benefits of nurturing creativity: critical thinking, problem-solving, emotional intelligence.
- Predictions for future trends in arts education, including curriculum shifts.
- Emphasis on collaboration between educators, artists, and policymakers.
- Role of technology and innovation in enhancing arts learning experiences.
- Call for supportive policies: increased funding, curriculum reforms, educator training.
About the speakers
Samantha Matthews (Oompah) Director
I’ve always loved the arts and been involved in the theatre throughout my career. Working at various venues and working closely with education teams has fired my desire to ensure that as many children as possible get to enjoy the arts and enjoy both the arts and learning. The concentration and amazement on the children’s faces while taking part in sessions with an Artis specialist reminds you of the impact that the arts can have on children’s early experiences and memories. My role here enables more children to experience the arts and be introduced to such an engaging and exciting environment from an early age.
Samantha Matthews is a seasoned leader in arts marketing, communications, and operations, with over 15 years of experience driving audience engagement and organizational growth. Currently, she serves as Director at the Artis Foundation, where she champions creative education and operational excellence. Samantha has also held key leadership roles at MK Gallery, Bedford Creative Arts, and Polka Theatre, shaping impactful campaigns and strategies. Her expertise spans audience development, branding, partnerships, and team leadership, underpinned by a deep passion for the arts and cultural innovation.
Louise Campbell (Zing) School Partnerships Manager
I discovered a passion for the arts in childhood and have treasured memories of attending dance classes and taking part in productions. During my teaching career, I have shared this love of performing and creative expression with the young people in my classes and believe that a children’s choir is one of the most magical sounds in the world. I have witnessed firsthand the impact the arts can have in improving engagement with learning, wellbeing and confidence.
I feel privileged to be working at Artis with a team of talented and dedicated people who are supporting and inspiring schools to immerse themselves in the arts and nurture and encourage creativity in every child.
Get in touch if you’d like to discuss ways in which you can partner with Artis.
Artis Foundation
Artis creates spaces for creative learning, nurturing creativity in every child. We are a joyful onomatopoeic charity with a superpower that connects buzzing creativity across the entire primary curriculum, so that children can unleash their full potential and bloom.
Webiste: https://www.artisfoundation.org.uk/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ArtisFdn
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/artis-education/
