Artis Specialist training is now accredited by the Royal Northern College of Music

For the first time, specialists in arts and education accepted onto the Artis Training Programme can now apply to Artis for further accreditation from the Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM) for a Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip) in Performing Arts Leadership. The two year, part-time course is run by Artis and accredited by RNCM. The PGDip enables practitioners working with Artis to gain a recognised qualification for their training with Artis and the specialised work they do with schools.

Dr. Anthony Gritten, Head of Postgraduate Studies and Research at the RNCM says, “The RNCM is very proud of its relationship with Artis, which is unique in the HE sector and geared towards the provision of quality artistic experience for school children on a systematic and regular basis. The RNCM is the validating body for the Postgraduate Diploma programme that Artis runs for its specialists and we have been impressed by Artis’ commitments to these educators and their students: we wholeheartedly endorse the extensive network of high-quality learning activities they have been building up around the UK.”

To satisfy entry requirements for the PGDip, eligible candidates participate in a full programme of assessment, evaluation and accreditation by Artis trainers and RNCM examiners. Candidates for the programme undergo assessments in their arts training to evaluate their music, dance and drama skills. They must demonstrate their ability to teach in a school setting. Once accepted onto the PGDip track, they receive formalised training as they become Artis Specialists. This includes in depth analysis of their work on an academic level that draws upon case studies, research and tracking techniques as used in other post graduate degree programmes.

Nigel Mainard (Boing), Head of Professional Services at Artis, comments “Partnering with the prestigious Royal Northern College of Music has affirmed the quality of the work we do. By acknowledging the comprehensive and high standard of training that we give our Artis Specialists, we feel this will give added confidence to Head Teachers and schools when choosing to work with us. It is also a wonderful opportunity for our performing artists to have a formalised diploma that recognises the commitment they have to developing their careers in arts education.”

As one of the few part-time courses in performing arts leadership offered in the UK, the Artis/RNCM’s PGDip has been gaining popularity during this year’s pilot programme. Artis and the RNCM have plans to expand the programme in 2009.

If your school would like more information on how a specially trained arts education specialist can stimulate more creativity in your school please contact Artis on 0870 777 1652 or by email to tinkle@artiseducation.com.