From 2013-15, Starcatchers is delivering a pilot programme of Creative Skills Training for Early Years practitioners in Scotland. Funded by the Scottish Government and Creative Scotland, this programme offers a range of practical, accessible and inspirational training sessions from Early Years artists which explore expressive arts using an open-ended, child centred approach.

Starcatchers is now inviting applications from applicants in Edinburgh, Fife, Inverclyde, East Lothian and South Lanarkshire with a deadline of Monday 23rd June. Applications for Aberdeen have a deadline of Monday 30th June. Deadlines for Dumfries, North Ayrshire and Highland will follow.  The deadline for applications for Dundee has now passed, however, please enquire via email about potential additional spaces.

“It goes beyond being given a set of instructions to follow, it’s a new way of thinking about your practice.  We got to be more creative about being creative” FEEDBACK FROM 2013 / 2014

The programme is for everyone working across the Early Years sector, including staff in local authority nurseries and partner providers, family centre settings, health workers, childminders, and out-of-school and play workers. For more detailed information about the programme including aims and outcomes please download the Programme Overview and area specific information.

“I used creative movement with a boy with severe anger issues – It absolutely blew my mind how effective it was” FEEDBACK FROM 2013/ 2014

In Aberdeen, Dundee, Edinburgh, Inverclyde, East Lothian, South Lanarkshire and North Ayrshire sessions will take place in twilight slots, typically 4-6pm.  Dumfries and Galloway sessions will take place within the working day, and sessions in Fife and Highland will take place over four intensive Saturdays.  Please check the area specific information for exact times and dates.

You can download an application form HERE and return it to Starcatchers by email: info@starcatchers.org.uk.