Education & Learning
Reimagining education through creativity and care. Working alongside schools and teachers, we develop creative approaches that inspire curriculum change, nurture curiosity, and help build fairer, more inclusive classrooms.
We have been working with schools for more than 15 years. During this time, we’ve developed our Caring and Creative Schools strategy, born from the understanding that not all children learn in the same way, and that every child deserves the chance to thrive.
We continue to explore creative and nurturing approaches to learning, where children’s wellbeing and mental health are valued just as much as academic progress.
At the centre of this work is Imaginary Communities (IC)® our creative learning methodology that positions every child as an equal playmaker. IC® helps teachers and artists create inclusive classroom environments where imagination, care and collaboration drive learning.
Our evolving approach
For many years, our Artist in Residence model placed Chol artists directly in schools, working alongside teachers and children to embed creative learning in everyday practice. Supported by the Paul Hamlyn Foundation, this programme shaped much of what we know today about the power of creativity in education.
We’re deeply grateful for everything we learned from that model – the relationships, the research and the transformation we witnessed. While that specific programme has now ended, we’re building on its legacy by exploring new ways to bring IC® into schools more broadly.
We’re developing projects that use the IC® approach to spark intergenerational and multi-faith connection, strengthen wellbeing, and reimagine what caring and creative education looks like across different settings.
What we do
In schools
We collaborate with teachers and children to explore how creative approaches can enhance learning, confidence and connection. Our work supports schools to apply IC® principles across the curriculum and helps teaching staff develop the confidence and skills to embed creativity in their practice. We see teachers as exceptionally skilled and valuable partners in the delivery and development of our in-schools work.
Training and development
We invest in future practitioners and teachers through universities and CPDL programmes, promoting creativity and care as essential parts of teaching and learning. We share the value of cross-curricular, thematic approaches and the impact they can have on children’s engagement and wellbeing.
Regional development
We bring together educators, cultural organisations and researchers to share ideas, explore new models and discuss the future of education. Through collaboration and shared learning, we help to build momentum for caring and creative education across Yorkshire and beyond.
“I just wanted to say I had such a wonderful day and the change in knowledge of the young people by the end of the day was outstanding. You helped them grasp some really complicated concepts and I loved your organic approach of waiting until they got something before moving on rather than carrying on regardless.”
Sarah Wilson, Kirklees Museums
How we underpin this work
- Building meaningful relationships with schools, communities and non-traditional education models to widen access to creative learning.
- Supporting artists and practitioners through professional development to ensure high-quality creative experiences in schools.
- Training and collaborating with teachers to build confidence in arts in education practices
- Researching and developing new programmes inspired by Imaginary Communities® and Equal Playmakers in schools, museums and libraries.
If you’d like to discuss how Chol can work with your school, institution or organisation, please contact info@wearechol.co.uk.