Thurrock Trailblazer Evaluation 2015/16

Research tells us that learning through arts and culture improves
attainment in all subjects 2 , and increases confidence and motivation 3 . We
know that participation in structured arts activities increases cognitive
abilities 4 and that structured arts activity helps develop valuable
transferable skills. 5 The employability of students who study arts subjects
is higher and they are more likely to stay in employment 6 .
Thurrock Trailblazer is making a positive difference to the quality of
cultural learning in schools and also bringing wider benefits. Children
attending school in Thurrock are gaining from this unique partnership
between local authority and major cultural organisations. These culturerich,
creative, innovating schools are more attractive places to study and
work. Developing cultural leadership is building capacity in schools and
creating new career pathways for teachers and students.
At the heart of Trailblazer is a shared vision for children. The quality of the
partnership between the Royal Opera House, Thurrock Council and
Thurrock schools is the key to providing learning opportunities that are
absolutely distinct to Thurrock. Thurrock Trailblazer works on a mixed
funding model and includes financial contributions from Thurrock LA
(41%), the Royal Opera House Learning and Participation (39%), Royal
Opera House Bridge (7%) and the participating schools (13%). In addition,
the Royal Opera House adds significant further value by contributing a
number of its own already funded programmes. The Trailblazer team
coordinates the offer from regional and national cultural partners, some of
whom are also already funded and thus adding yet more value to the
offer.
2 Ruppert, S (2006). Critical Evidence: How the Arts Benefit Student Achievement. National
Assembly of State Arts Agencies, p9. http://www.keepartsinschools.org/Research/Materials/
CriticalEvidence.pdf
3 Catterall, J (2010). Doing Well and Doing Good by Doing Art. Los Angeles: I-Group Books, 2009.
4 Culture and Sport Evidence Programme (CASE) (2016). Understanding the impact of engagement
in culture and sport. London: DCMS, p29.
http://www.culture.gov.uk/images/research/CASEsystematic-review-July10.pdf
5 CASE, (2016). Understanding the impact of engagement in culture and sport, London: DCMS, p29.
6 DTZ Consulting & Research (2006). Arts and Employability, Executive Summary. Edinburgh:
Scottish Executive Education Department. http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Resource/
Doc/160095/0043607.pdf
8