“You’re an absolute natural! What lucky children x”

— Parent

Today marked a remarkable session at Westbourne House School where I had the privilege of engaging with an exceptionally curious group of Year 7 students. The interview experience stood out as one of the most memorable in my career, largely due to the students' thoughtful and probing questions.

In Mrs Jeram's vibrant art department, I encountered a space where creativity truly flourishes. The department's approach to artistic expression is refreshingly bold - students are encouraged to experiment with various styles and mediums, resulting in work that displays remarkable confidence and originality.

One particularly touching moment came when a student asked if they could spend their days drawing mythical creatures. My response was an emphatic yes - following one's artistic passion, no matter how unique, often leads to extraordinary outcomes. This exchange perfectly illustrated my belief that creative making naturally evolves into creative thinking.

The students' fascination with colour creation techniques was particularly striking. Their eyes widened as we discussed how different colours are developed and combined, leading to engaging discussions about my artistic influences and the technical aspects of my work. Such curiosity from young artists is precisely what drives innovation in art.

Looking ahead, these talented Year 7 students will be embarking on projects inspired by my artistic style, which will contribute to their art scholarship portfolios. It's humbling to know that my work, which will remain on display at the school through April, might play a small part in their artistic journey.

Mrs Jeram has cultivated an exceptional environment where art is not merely a subject but a serious medium for expression and growth. The freedom and experimentation evident in the students' work reflects her remarkable leadership of the art department.

I look forward to returning to Westbourne House School to witness how these promising young artists develop their projects. Today reinforced my belief that when children are given the space and encouragement to explore their creativity freely, their potential knows no bounds.

A truly magnificent school that understands the transformative power of art in education.

Find out more about Westbourne House School or read their lovely post about the day here on Facebook and here on Instagram