The arts have long been an integral part of education, helping students develop creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. However, over recent years, there has been a worrying trend of the arts being neglected in UK schools, with many schools cutting funding for arts subjects and focusing more on academic subjects like maths and science. This has had a significant impact on students’ creativity as they struggle to express themselves and explore their artistic potential.

The main reason for the neglect of the arts is the pressure schools face to achieve high grades in academic subjects. With the introduction of the EBacc (English Baccalaureate) in 2010, which prioritises subjects like maths, English, and science, many schools have focused more on these subjects to the detriment of the arts. This has resulted in cuts to funding for arts subjects, fewer arts teachers, and reduced opportunities for students to engage in creative activities.

Additionally, the government’s ambition is to see 90% of pupils studying the EBacc subject combination by 2025.

The impact of this neglect on students’ creativity cannot be overstated. The arts offer a unique opportunity for students to explore their creative potential and develop their own unique voice. Through painting, music, drama, and dance, students can learn to express themselves in new ways and develop the confidence to share their ideas with others. Without access to these opportunities, many students are left feeling stifled and unable to express themselves.

The neglect of the arts in education also has wider implications for society as a whole. The arts play a vital role in our culture and are essential for fostering creativity and innovation. Without access to the arts, we risk limiting our ability to innovate and develop new ideas, which could have significant implications for our future.

Programmes like Artsmark are a great way to keep creativity alive throughout your school, but are heavily time consuming and the responsibilities are often delegated to just one teacher.

So, what can we do to address this issue? It’s crucial to shift priorities within the education system. While academic subjects are undoubtedly important, we shouldn’t overlook the significance of the arts. We need to acknowledge their value and ensure they receive adequate funding and resources to flourish.

A greater focus on creative teaching methods would allow students to explore the arts in new and innovative ways. Including more opportunities for collaboration, experimentation, and exploration, as well as the use of technology to enhance the arts learning experience.

By recognising the value of the arts and prioritising their inclusion in education, we can ensure that students have the opportunity to develop their creativity and explore their potential, while also fostering a culture of innovation and creativity in society as a whole.

What are your thoughts? Let us know in the comments section below.

This article was written by the TeacherHaven team, help us support education by contributing to our blog, email us at info@doceoconsulting.co.uk