Hello,
I've been supporting the Escalate Arts Project at ßÙßÇÂþ» Arts for the past 3 months, working behind the scenes to encourage young people and children into the arts.
My background
I’ve always enjoyed the arts but only entered the sector officially through the Artswork Breakthrough Trainee Programme. In my own time, I paint, write poems, admire artwork, visit exhibitions, practise interior design, make crafts, explore fashion, play games and watch TV - and felt a push to take my interest further.
I found the Breakthrough Programme after a period of unemployment, looking to move into a creative role after working in business. I loved that the scheme welcomed any level of experience in the arts - from being a degree holder to no experience at all (me!) - and prioritised vulnerable young people (NEET, disabled, neurodivergent, mental health, discrimination, school leaver, lack experience).
The Escalate Arts project
I applied to Escalate through the Breakthrough job board, looking for local work that fit my communication and data skills. Escalate Arts aims to transform how people work, design, enjoy and participate in the arts in Spelthorne, focusing on young people aged 11–24 and supporting skills, career development and creative exploration, and I was drawn to the idea that my work could directly impact young people’s futures.
I joined during a busy period, with the ßÙßÇÂþ» Youth Arts and Culture Festival 2025 approaching. The one‑day festival (8 November) ran across multiple venues in Staines, with 30+ creative activities from 30+ partner organisations and over 350 attendees aged 11–18.
For the festival, I:
- Organised mailing lists
- Designed flyers and signboards
- Created feedback systems (token boxes, surveys, verbal)
- Supported on the day with sign‑in, goodie bags and directing participants
- Analysed feedback and produced a report
Next, I’ll be planning upcoming communication and marketing strategy and designing feedback systems for our March Literary Festival.
Getting involved
For young people, I’d highly recommend getting involved with Escalate Arts events and the Breakthrough Programme — they’re free and make the arts feel possible.
runs yearly, and Escalate Arts regularly offers free workshops, skills sessions and festivals. Find upcoming events on Instagram @escalate_arts or the Escalate Arts web pages. Our next major event is the March Literary Festival in Spelthorne Library.
A message to young people
I hope this encourages young people to follow their interests, step outside their comfort zone and explore their passions. My best advice: don’t be intimidated! The arts are about bringing your unique perspective and creating something only you can create. You won’t know until you try, so try!
