Creative Practitioner CPD and Support Sessions – Intro

Originally called ‘Mental Health & Wellbeing Sessions’ and then ‘Native Creatives,’ these sessions were put out termly following lockdown in 2020 until spring 2022, and then less frequently until March 2023. They were made in collaboration with Susan Coles, Arts, Creativity & Educational Consultant. All of the content serves as a reminder for educators to nurture their practice and passion for the arts, in order to benefit their personal creativity and professional knowledge. 

After the relaxation of the first lockdown in September 2020, teachers were left with feelings of isolation, anxiety and confusion surrounding the return to the classroom. In response to this, the first programme was aimed at supporting teachers’ mental health and wellbeing. It soon became apparent that teachers of the creative arts, and artist-teachers needed support in addressing their own personal creativity, either as a practicing artist or someone who engages with arts and culture outside of work. Native Creatives was born with the aim to primarily support personal artistic practice, but to also inspire and motivate in the classroom. 

Delivered online, sessions have included discussions led by notable academic speakers, along with workshops and presentations from artists and educators on a vast range of topical issues. The series allows teachers and educators to explore their personal and professional practice; remembering that they are not only educators, but creatives too. 

Who is it for? 

These sessions are primarily, though not exclusively, designed for creative educators; teachers, primary arts leads and artist educators at any stage of their career.  

Sessions are mostly themed by arts practice; you will find playlists for creative writing, dance & movement, drawing, music, visual arts, creative pedagogy and wellbeing for teachers.  

In the film below, Jen Langeskov, Susan Coles and Stephen Chamberlain give an introduction to the series by reflecting on the sessions so far and how creative teachers can use them to sustain themselves.