About Creativity Collaboratives
About Creativity Collaboratives
The Creativity Collaboratives pilot (2021–2024)
The Creativity Collaboratives pilot (2021 - 2024) brought together schools across England to explore innovative teaching methods that embed creativity in the curriculum. This initiative was a key recommendation of the 2019 Durham Commission, which highlighted creativity’s role in personal, social, and economic development, while noting its uneven presence in schools.
Supported by Arts Council England and Freelands Foundation, educators in regional networks developed strategies, tested approaches, and shared insights to drive system-wide change. Eight lead schools trialled diverse curriculum models, with Durham University evaluating the impact.
The pilot showed that Teaching for Creativity boosts student engagement, confidence, and learning ownership, while positively influencing teaching practices. Further research is needed to deepen understanding of its long-term effects on young people.
About Creativity Collaboratives
Creativity Collaboratives Legacy Phase
Launched in October 2024 with £1.5 million from Arts Council England, and running until July 2026, this new phase involves six Collaboratives focusing on:
- strengthening evidence of impact on pupils
- advancing equity, diversity, and inclusion
- developing scalable models and resources for creative education
Activities span early years to further education, showcasing the breadth of Teaching for Creativity. Collaboratives continue to share insights through toolkits and resources available on their individual pages.
Explore each Collaborative’s work below or sign up for the Creativity Exchange newsletter for updates.
