YOUNGSTERS have been given the opportunity to show off their artistic side after a college opened its doors to allow them to showcase their work.
The School of Art, Design, Computing & IT at Hartlepool College of Further Education is currently hosting its annual Creative Show, showcasing Art, Design and IT work across a wide range of creative disciplines, from Level 2 students through to Foundation Degree.
The show was officially opened on Wednesday with a stunning collection of pieces from the College’s students on display.
The following night, the focus turned to work which had been done by creative talent from local secondary schools from across Hartlepool, Peterlee, Billingham, Thornaby, Norton, Stockton, Sedgefield, Wingate and Seaham.
Over the last three months entrants have been invited to answer an open brief for both disciplines under the keyword theme of ‘Hidden’, with two categories spanning years 7-9 and 10-11 respectively.
On Thursday, entrants, their families and guests from across the region attended a packed awards ceremony, where the four winners were announced.
Taking the Young Creatives prizes were Lucy White of Thornaby Academy (Yr11) and Penny Tetlow of Ian Ramsey CE Academy (Yr8).
The Young Programmer winners were Alex Noddings (Yr11) and James Withycombe (Yr7), both from Dyke House Sports & Technology College.
They were presented with their awards by Vicky Sturrs from the BALTIC.
Each winner was given a special trophy, designed and hand-made by students from Hartlepool College of Further Education.
In addition, each shortlisted nominee was given a special certificate to boost their portfolio. The quality of work was highly impressive, with many visitors commenting that they couldn’t believe it has been produced by people so young.
The Young Awards represent just the start of an ambitious programme by Hartlepool College to work more closely with young talent.
From September the College’s School of Arts, Design, Computing & IT is initiating regular access to hands-on workshops, project briefs, state of the art facilities, industry standard software and professional tuition via a structured delivery program.
Andy Steel, Assistant Principal, said: “The Young Creatives and Programmers has been a massive success, with a huge response from local schools.
“The team deserves a huge amount of credit for the efforts they put in organising them. In fact, we’re now planning to roll the concept out across other areas, such as Young Engineer, Young Health Professional and other areas such as Hair, Beauty and Sport.”
The College’s Creative Show and Young Awards work can be viewed throughout June, 9am-4pm Monday to Friday on the first floor atrium balcony and Learning Core 1.
The exhibition is open to the public and entry is free.
For more information on Hartlepool College contact Student Services on 01429 295000 or search @hartlepoolfe online, #HCFE. To find out more about the School of Arts, Design, Computing & IT visit www.HCFECreative.co.uk