CHS South Awarded Artsmark Gold for Outstanding Arts Provision

“This Gold Award is a testament to the creativity, dedication, and passion of our students and staff. We believe that the arts are central to a happy, engaged, and successful school community, and it’s wonderful to see that commitment recognised at the highest level.”

Mr. David Prophet, Headteacher

CHS South is thrilled to announce that we have been awarded the prestigious Artsmark Gold Award by Arts Council England, recognising the school’s exceptional commitment to arts education and creativity across the curriculu, achieved on our very first application.

Since opening in 2018, CHS South has built a thriving arts culture, offering students a wide range of opportunities to explore and develop their talents in dance, drama, art, photography, music, and music technology. Every Year 9 student can choose a discipline to study in depth, and all students are encouraged to pursue at least one arts-based GCSE, reflecting the high value placed on the arts within our curriculum.

“We are absolutely delighted to have been awarded the Gold Artsmark Award on our first application. This recognition reflects the strong culture of creativity at CHS South and our commitment to championing the arts across the school. Over the past two years, we have worked towards this achievement, and it stands as a testament to the depth, quality, and vibrancy of our arts provision.”
Ms. Brain, Curriculum Lead for Performing Arts

The Artsmark assessors praised CHS South for its impressive collaborations with arts and cultural partners, which allow students to participate in DJ and turntable workshops, art and photography exhibitions, dance showcases, and live performances both in school and at local and national theatres. The school’s commitment to inclusivity and cultural enrichment was also recognised, with opportunities for all students to take part in arts experiences, alongside celebrations of diverse cultural events such as Diwali, Grand Iftar, and Culture Nights.

The Artsmark assessors noted particular strengths in student leadership and engagement, highlighting initiatives such as Art Ambassadors delivering lectures to PGCE trainees and student-led productions where pupils take ownership of scripts, choreography, and lighting.

“This award recognises the dedication of our students and staff to visual creativity. From exhibitions to workshops, our students are constantly exploring new ways to express themselves and share their work with the wider community. Artsmark Gold reflects the energy and imagination of our whole school.”

Mr. McGill, Curriculum Leader for Visual Arts

CHS South looks forward to continuing its Artsmark journey, further championing arts education, and inspiring students to express themselves creatively while making a positive impact within and beyond our Trust.