Artscaping at Trumpington Park Primary School: a year of creativity, nature and wellbeing
In a year-long collaboration, the school has had the privilege of taking part in an inspiring project known as Artscaping, bringing together the talents of Hilary, an artist from Cambridge Curiosity and Imagination, and Michelle, a therapeutic practitioner from the Cambridge Acorn Project. Every Friday, they have worked with children across the school, helping them explore creativity, emotional expression and wellbeing through art in nature. Empowering the children to experience the beauty of imagination has been key. As one child said, “I feel powerful like an artist”.
Hilary and Michelle share a deep passion for the outdoors and for the powerful role it can play in children’s emotional development. Their work has encouraged pupils to slow down, notice the world around them and use natural materials to express their thoughts and feelings. Through this, every child at Trumpington Park has had the chance to experience the therapeutic benefits of creativity rooted in the natural environment.
A key part of Artscaping has been giving children the freedom to explore the outdoors and discover the wonders right on their doorstep. The school hopes these experiences will have a lasting, positive impact on their mental health and wellbeing. The children have also developed a range of artistic skills: such as experimenting with ink made from natural sources and creating collograph prints using gathered materials. These techniques have allowed pupils to interpret their observations in imaginative and personal ways. Some of the words from the children include “I love Artscaping - it feels like I can do anything freely”.
Artscaping has woven together creativity, nature and wellbeing in a way that has enriched the school community. It has offered children a chance to connect with the outdoors, express themselves freely and discover new artistic possibilities. As the project draws to a close, its influence will continue to be felt - in the confidence of the children, the beauty of their creations and the calm moments they now know how to find in the world around them.