The Neumark Foundation are delighted to be funding the Denbigh Workshop Creative Arts Summer Schools this year.

The Summer Schools provide the opportunity for 100 children (7-11yrs) and young people (12-17yrs) to attenda free, all-inclusive bilingual, week of arts-based activities in August, for each age group. The young people come from disadvantaged backgrounds, young carers, looked after children, referrals from Denbighshire Youth Service, Dasu, Barnardos, Youth Shedz Denbigh, or on the at-risk register.

Working in small groups of twelve to provide a person-centred approach, they are supported by staff and at least one adult volunteer in each session.

The Summer School will be based in the beautiful surroundings of St Brigids in Denbigh and take place from 7th – 18th August 2023.

Tracy Spencer, Founder of the Denbigh Workshop said, “We offer a mixed-discipline summer school which will consist of creative writing, meditation, poetry, singing, dance, art & craft, game making, and physical theatre. Working with professional West End performers, as well as local writers, and Welsh artists from 10 – 4 pm over 5 days. We offer early drop and late pick-up for working parents on a low income from 9.30 – 4.30 pm to help ease childcare costs over the summer. As always, we tackle the issue of holiday hunger, by offering fruit snacks and free packed lunches to all, irrespective of income to avoid the stigma to be provided by a local caterer last year it was Carla Rizzi from Denbigh Rugby Club. We feel it’s important to offer a creative outlet to boost well-being and bring our young people together in a creative space. For many young people, it’s a chance to meet up with old friends and make new friends and an opportunity to develop their talents in the performing arts.

We are incredibly grateful to The Neumark Foundation for funding this years’ Summer School, the weeks makes a huge difference to the young people who attend, and offer an opportunity for them to experience unique activities and develop skills, confidence and friendship they are often unaware of.”

Rebecca Neumark, The Neumark Foundation CEO said, “We have been so impressed with the support that The Denbigh Workshop has given to local young people, particularly those, who, as a result of the challenges in their lives can be disadvantaged and wouldn’t ordinarily have the opportunity to experience the opportunities provided by The Denbigh Workshop, that provide an excellent social outlet and a chance to develop fantastic skills and self-confidence, helping their development and enabling aspirations, as well as lasting friendships. We are really pleased to be funding the Summer Schools this year.”

Letters from parents

“My children attended Summer School last year, and absolutely loved it! For a lone parent working full time, I also was so grateful to be able to access the provision and the set up was amazing. My daughter’s confidence has grown since being involved with the Denbigh workshop. It was a difficult 2 years of lockdown for all children, especially the younger children who missed a proper transition from primary to secondary and this has had a knock-on effect on mental health and well-being. Being part of the Summer School really helped my daughter navigate the move into secondary school and develop positive relationships whilst accessing a fun and engaging experience. The staff were warm and welcoming and I know my children would love the opportunity to attend again.”

“Our 10-year-old Daughter attended the Denbigh theatre workshop at St Brigid’s 2021. It was an invaluable experience for her, and for a child with profound sensory difficulties, and who is on the spectrum, it was a huge step forward in improving her confidence and well-being. It was fun, interesting and educational and creative all at the same time and an experience she will not forget. The tutor’s and leaders were exceptional and guided the children in such a kind and professional manner. It was particularly inspirational as all tutor’s work with in the arts and acting industry which is a huge benefit in inspiring our young people.” 

Find out more If you would be interested in finding out more about The Denbigh Workshop Summer Schools, just email Tracy Spencer, [email protected]