Creative grants open to secondary schools

SECONDARY schools across the state can now apply for the Andrews Labor Government’s Creative Learning Partnerships program which is scheduled to take flight again next year.

Described as a “residency-style” program, students and teachers will work in conjunction with industry-leading Victorian artists, writers, designers and creative organisations to produce a project matched against the school’s curriculum.

Schools can apply for grants of up to $10,000 for a 20-day project with an individual creative professional or $35,000 for a longer residency alongside a creative organisation.

Minister for Education James Merlino said creative thinking had proven to be a helpful tool for students.

“It gives them better language and expression skills, it hones their problem solving and it can unlock a new way of looking at their environment,” Mr Merlino said.

The program welcomes applications from schools in both metropolitan and rural areas to strengthen education outcomes from Foundation to Year 10, including VET and VCAL studies.

Member for South Barwon Darren Cheeseman said the program presented a “terrific opportunity” for local schools to “enliven” curriculum.

The Creative Learning Partnerships program is a joint initiative between the Department of Education and Training and Creative Victoria.

Applications close at 5pm on Thursday September 19. Project activity must commence after April 14, 2020 (term two) and can occur at any time in terms two, three or four.

To apply for the 2020 program, or to view past projects, visit creative.vic.gov.au/clp.