The New Zealand Government has announced an increase of NZ$4m in its Creatives in Schools programme, providing work opportunities for an estimated 300 artists including musicians.
The new programme, which began earlier in 2020, supports artists and creative practitioners to partner with schools and kura (Māori-language immersion schools) to share their specialist skills and knowledge with students.
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said:
‘COVID-19 has had a significant impact on the cultural sector, with some forecasts showing that more than 10,000 jobs could be gone in the next 12 months without Government intervention.
‘The $4 million boost in funding for the Creatives in Schools programme sits alongside the wider $175 million support package to help the creative sector recover.
‘The additional funding will expand the programme from 304 projects to 510 projects through to 2023 benefitting many more students and providing opportunities for up to 750 creatives by helping to offset some of the lost employment and income resulting from COVID-19.
‘A healthy cultural sector is central to the wellbeing of our communities. We want to keep growing the music and arts industries in New Zealand and it’s important that young people are aware of the opportunities in the creative industries.
The value of creative learning experiences cannot be over-estimated
Chris Hipkins, Education Minister, said:
‘The Creatives in Schools programme is designed to enhance students’ wellbeing, improve skills in communication, collaboration and creative thinking and raise their awareness of creative careers.
‘Particularly in the wake of COVID-19, the value of creative learning experiences cannot be over-estimated.’
Header photo: Students and staff from Wellington High School and Royal New Zealand Ballet, alongside Prime Minister and Minister for Arts, Culture and Heritage Hon Jacinda Ardern and Associate Minister for Arts, Culture and Heritage Hon Grant Robertson.
