Dear Colleagues

The theme of our Creative Development Trust driver got me thinking about how wide ranging the word Creative really is when I consider how Consortium has developed since 2016 (and before that, when it was an idea on various pieces of paper, spreadsheets and power point presentations).

There is an obvious link to the curriculum and how we are encouraging our young people to engage with the arts.  This was showcased at Snape Maltings when Southwold performed alongside other schools and ensembles in the annual celebration event; I know that other schools have also participated and the experience is one that stays with young people for a lifetime.  

Creativity is also very evident in how we approach challenges as a Trust, whether that be in adapting our provision and curriculum for those pupils with SEND or the way in which we are commissioning contracts and support and make the best use of our limited funds; creativity is an integral thread throughout.  This means that we are often 'ahead' of the sector in some of our approaches and this has enabled us to support schools within the Trust that struggled within the LA environment.  

On a personal note, there is a saying that I have on my office noticeboard - "if you always do what you've always done; you'll always get what you've always got" and that, for me, is how to approach change and challenges; and as such is an invitation to be creative in terms of inviting self-reflection, self-development, and laying the ground for taking a risk, however small, to do something differently.

Some of you will be aware that I have two children, one about to turn 19, the other 15.  Both are artistically creative in their own way; one through playing the tuba with the Royal Fusiliers Band in Newcastle (as well as other bands and orchestras in the North) whilst at University (not studying music!), the other expresses her creativity through crochet, drawing, watercolour and clay work.  The interests for them both were discovered, nurtured and developed during their time at Primary School (St Edmunds, Hoxne).  And as adults, they now use their creativity in so many ways, including making friends, developing their confidence and employability skills, and interacting with the world.

For me, the importance of creativity is fundamental to all of our young people and to YOU too.  Everyone should have the opportunity to explore their 'creative' potential, so, how could you be more creative - in your actions, your thoughts and in your engagement with the arts; and how could you encourage that creativity in your team, colleagues and pupils?

With best wishes for the Easter break and sincere thanks to you all.

Dawn

Dawn Carman-Jones, Chair of Trust Board