Young Arts Groups
There are currently a number of Young Arts Groups across the UK. Groups are usually affiliated to their local Decorative and Fine Arts Society. Initial funding for a Group is often given by the local Society and the relationship remains close. Membership is open to all young people aged between 8 and 18. YA Groups are run by volunteer teams, who organize exciting programmes of arts activities for members throughout the year. These activities can include:
- hands-on workshops with expert tuition
- themed craft days
- visits to artists' studios, galleries, museums, theatres and historic houses.
Group activities give members opportunities to learn new skills and techniques and to make new friends. YA Group members also receive details of all national events via their Group’s newsletter or programme and the NADFAS website.
A Young Arts School Group is usually based in a primary school and involves either a particular class or an art club. School Groups have a close relationship with their local DFAS, which gives financial sponsorship to help with the art activities of the Group. Each Group is run by a small team, usually found by the school, and the organiser of this team forms the link between the Group and the local Society.
A Young Arts Museum Group is run by a museum with input generally given by the Education Officer, assisted by parents or other museum staff. Ideally the Group meets for art workshops at least 6 times a year.
Members of Young Arts Groups have the opportunity to participate in:
- activities organised by their local Group
- Young Arts national events
- The NADFAS Chairman's Competition.
Peer Group Guides is a highly successful initiative piloted by the Lady Lever Gallery in Wirral. It is designed to train young people as junior guides. It offers them the chance to become involved with the gallery and local community, as well as equipping them with:
- the experience of working in an arts environment and with arts professionals
- the development of work skills, eg research, presentation techniques, time management and team work
- opportunities to contribute positively to the community
- the opportunity to become accredited by the Duke of Edinburgh's Award Scheme to cover the Bronze 'Service' section of the award (venues must apply to the Duke of Edinburgh's Award Scheme for accreditation prior to setting up a guiding programme).
The training is often eligible for Arts Council Awards.
Go to our ‘Join Us!’ section for details of the Societies in your area that have Young Arts Groups or contact volunteering@nadfas.org.uk for more information about setting up a Group.
