Children at Hilllside School will be the proud owners of their very own mini Snowdog
The Portslade based school joined the Snowdogs education programme this week and pupils got the chance to say hello to their Snowdog. The education programme will feature mini Snowdogs sculptures, each one decorated by students and teachers, that will link to the main charity art trail. It’s a chance for Snowdogs by the Sea to showcase the creativity of local young people and for schools to be part of a large scale public art trail celebrating learning through arts, heritage, and culture.
Rachel Burstow, headteacher of the special school of 75 pupils aged 4 - 16 explained why they got involved
“Hillside school is proud to support Martlets as we have many staff whose families have been supported through difficult times. We’re excited by the opportunity to get involved in a sculpture trail which is so tactile, being able to touch and explore objects like our mini Snowdog is very important for children with special needs. Our Snowpuppy will eventually become part of our sensory garden that we have, we’ll be working together on decorating the Snowpuppy. I think this is a chance for schools to create something visually exciting and inspiring together. It fits in perfectly with Brighton & Hove which is such an incredibly creative city.”
Antonia Shepherd, Snowdogs Education Programme Coordinator told us
“Our education programme is open to all local schools, each school will have their own blank mini Snowdog sculpture which will be on public display in the city. Being part of the programme means schools will also get a full curriculum linked Education Resource Pack. And because we know that the story of the Snowdog explores important themes of love, loss and hope we’ve included resources to help support those teachers and pupils who have experienced loss.”
The Martlets Hospice are working with Wild in Art to present Snowdogs by the Sea.
Ben Reed, Development Director at Wild in Art, said: “We believe passionately in the power of creativity to engage young people in learning through fun, hands-on arts activities. The Snowdog puppy sculptures are fantastic canvases and a great way to bring the excitement of Snowdogs by the Sea to schools and the curriculum.”
Schools have until the end of March to sign up for the programme.
Photo credit - Vervate/Liz Finlayson