Benton Park gets Artsmark award (From Wharfedale Observer)

Benton Park gets Artsmark award

9:03am Thursday 14th September 2006 in Schools By Daryl Ames

Benton Park School in Rawdon has been awarded the Artsmark Gold, by Arts Council England, in recognition of the school's commitment to the arts.

Of the 14 schools that attained the Artsmark last year, only seven gained the top accolade.

The award recognises schools with a high level of provision in art, dance, drama and music; and those that also are committed to giving young people a wide range of arts experiences including out-of-hours opportunities and visits or partnerships with artists and arts organisations.

It also recognises Benton Park as a wholly inclusive school giving access to the arts to Meadow Park's special needs pupils.

Principal Anne Clarke said: "We are immensely proud of this achievement as you can only gain the award after a rigorous inspection process. Credit must be given to both staff and pupils who show so much creativity in their work."

Sue Dixon, Head of Art, Gwyneth Hadley, Head of Drama, Liz Allenby, Dance, and Dave Pritchard, Head of Music, were all delighted to find students' work being acknowledge.