I have been running this after school art club for ten years now. The classes are small and it is a  space where children can unwind and have fun exploring, making art and creating together. The focus is on exploring different creative processes without the pressure of producing a perfect final piece.

I encourage the  children to embrace their imagination and express themselves freely with different mediums and techniques like drawing, painting and construction, clay, crafting and storytelling.

We discuss the different options and together we choose which to explore. We have regular movement breaks.

The focus is on self-confidence, and the joy of discovery. The children learn to appreciate the beauty in their own work and the work of others and understand that we all have different views about What is Art? This approach helps to build a strong foundation of creativity and critical thinking that can benefit them in all areas of life.

Children often work together on projects, sharing ideas and inspiring each other. This not only enhances their social skills but also teaches them the value of cooperation and mutual respect. We get involved in the local community by making signs, posters or having an exhibition for Midleton Arts Fest in May every year.

Overall, this setting is designed to be a sanctuary for young artists, where the focus is on the joy of creation and all the wonderful possibilities that come with it.