East Ayrshire Creative Minds Learning Network hosted an informative,
entertaining and enjoyable event on Tuesday 26th March, held at Dumfries
House, Cumnock.

Keynote speaker, Professor Brian Boyd stimulated discussion about the
future of arts in education and placing creativity at the heart of
learning.

Councillor Stephanie Primrose, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, who
participated in discussions said:

“This event provided an extremely valuable opportunity for local people to come together and talk about creative learning.  It follows on from the establishment of a successful Artist Network, which is supported jointly by East and South Ayrshire Councils.  The networking opportunities undoubtedly strengthened links between parents, schools and the artist community and I am proud to be a
part of this initiative.”

Over 60 people attended in one of Scotland’s most beautiful stately
homes, including teachers, classroom assistants, parents, carers and a
wide range of artists.  Over the past year, East Ayrshire’s CLN has
provided high quality professional development opportunities to members
including Garageband for Beginners, How looking at Art Can Support CfE,
Classical Indian Dance, 10-week Dance Leadership Course, Primary
Conducting and Repertoire, Scottish Ballet ‘Nutcracker’, Alcohol and
Drugs Awareness through Creative Learning, Heritage Arts and the
establishment of a strong Artist Network.  East Ayrshire CLN has more
than doubled its membership this year, with over 250 participants.

“This year our network has grown considerably, both in size and diversity
of its members.  I am overwhelmed with the support and positive feedback
from participants sharing their learning and experiences with teaching
colleagues and pupils, parents with their children at home and the
successful establishment of an Artist Network.  Not only this, but by
bringing together like-minded individuals, dynamic new partnerships have
been formed whilst providing motivation for their own learning and
teaching in meaningful and fun ways.”  Helen Duncan, Cultural Co-ordinator

The Creative Learning Networks Fund is managed by Education Scotland, in
partnership with Creative Scotland in local authority areas across
Scotland.  East Ayrshire will continue to work with South Ayrshire
Council CLN on joint projects to add value, avoid duplication and
maximise resources for future events and training.

“The Creative Minds Learning Network event in Dumfries House had a real
buzz about it. Professor Brian Boyd set the scene by focussing on
‘opening our classrooms’.  While the vibrant discussions which followed
exemplified just what is possible when artists and teachers share ideas,
thoughts and dreams.”  John Wilson, Senior Education Manager

Helen Duncan, Cultural Coordinator, East Ayrshire