Inspiring Young Artists at Kingsham Primary School

Pupils took part in an immersive creative journey across Autumn 2025 and Spring 2026, exploring what it means to think, see and create as artists.  

The programme was designed to nurture creativity, build confidence, and support wellbeing, blending in-school workshops with inspiring on-site visits. The result was a rich, multi-layered experience that empowered pupils to see themselves as artists and develop their own artistic voice. 

Where it started  

The journey began with an in-school assembly, introducing pupils to Goodwood Art Foundation and the artworks they would encounter. Excitement quickly built ahead of their on-site visits, where learning shifted into a dynamic outdoor setting. 

During their time on site, pupils engaged with artworks in imaginative and sensory ways using Art Explorer Resource Boxes. The Look, Listen and Sculpt Resources, encourage children to slow down, observe closely, and respond creatively using all their senses. 

Each pupil received their own Art Explorer Pack, including a sketchbook journal and materials, giving them the tools to document ideas, sketch responses, and further ideas to continue their creative thinking beyond their visit. 
 

Thinking like artists 

Back at school, pupils reflected on their experiences during a special assembly led by an Artist Educator. This session deepened their understanding of art and what it means to be an artist, while creating space to share thoughts, revisit memorable moments and build connections between their visit and their own creative practice. 

Hands-on making 

The programme then moved into a making and experiment workshop phase, with the Learning Team and an Artist Educator delivering six days of in-school sessions. This gave pupils the chance to try out new techniques and materials, broadening their understanding of art in context. 

Through collagraph printmaking, they explored mark making using natural and recycled materials to create their own printing plates. From rubbings to using a printing press, they discovered how textures and patterns translate into detailed prints. Building on these ideas, pupils created 3D clay tiles inspired by natural forms. Each piece contributed to a larger collaborative artwork, bringing together individual expression and collective making.  

Throughout, the focus remained on exploration, experimentation, and building confidence through doing.  

Celebrating young artists 

The programme culminated with their very own exhibition and celebration event. Pupils returned to Goodwood Art Foundation as proud artists, showcasing their work within the professional setting of the Learning Hub. 

Families were invited to explore the exhibition, guided by the children themselves—now confident in discussing their ideas, processes, and inspirations. To add to the celebration, children and their guests were offered hot drinks and cake. 

A gallery activity encouraged shared discovery, as pupils and their guests engaged with artworks together.

To ensure as many families as possible could attend, additional transport costs were covered, removing barriers to participation. 

What stayed with them 

The impact of the programme extended beyond the workshops and exhibition. Pupils developed their ability to observe closely, think creatively and express ideas with confidence. They experienced the connection between art and the natural world, and began to see themselves as artists. 

At the end of the residency, pupils reflected on what they had discovered: 

“I learnt being messy is ok”  
“How to make prints out of cardboard and buttons” 
“Making tiles is easy and fun” 

When asked what they felt proud of, responses included: 

“Coming to Goodwood to see my art” 
“Proud of myself because I did artwork” 
“I am proud of how much effort I put into my clay tile” 

Families echoed this enthusiasm at the exhibition: 

“Such amazing artwork on display – fantastic opportunity for all the children” 
“My son loved being creative in the forest, loving being in nature, using nature for art.” 
“My Daughter is always excited to try new art techniques, and I am happy that you introduced her to these lovely art tricks that she enjoyed a lot.” 

Every pupil received a Young Artist Pass at the end of the project, encouraging them to return as a young artist with their parent or guardian. Under 18s already receive free admission, and the pass also grants complimentary entry for one accompanying adult. The aim is to encourage further visits with parents or guardians, strengthening connections with the local community and supporting continued engagement. 

Teachers also benefited, gaining insights into creative teaching approaches and reflecting on the programme’s impact on both pupils and their own practice. 

Programmes like this remind us of the power of creativity in education – not just as a subject, but as a way of seeing, thinking and engaging with the world around us. 

Each year we aim to have 3 school in residencies, to support our local schools. If you would like your school to be considered for academic year 2026/2027, please email an expression of interest to learning@goodwoodartfoundation.org

Find out more about our Learning Programme here.



Written by our Head of Learning, Madeline Pike. Photographs by Max Carter.