Leicestershire Cares is proud to announce that it is now an official Arts Award Centre, marking an exciting new chapter in its commitment to supporting and empowering young people. This development means that young people engaged with Leicestershire Cares will have even more opportunities to explore their creativity, develop new skills, and gain nationally recognised qualifications in the arts.
As part of this achievement, two members of staff have completed specialist training to deliver Arts Awards. Aaron, from the Powering On project, and Cara, from the Care Experience project, are now qualified Arts Award advisers and are ready to support young people on their creative journeys. Together, they will be offering both Bronze and Silver Arts Awards, opening the door to progression and deeper engagement with the arts.
The Arts Award is a nationally recognised qualification that supports young people to discover and develop their artistic interests, build confidence, and gain transferable skills such as leadership, communication, and reflection. By becoming an Arts Award Centre, Leicestershire Cares is strengthening its offer to young people, particularly those who may face barriers to accessing creative opportunities elsewhere.
Through the Powering on and Care Experience projects, Aaron and Cara will embed Arts Award delivery into their existing work, ensuring the awards are accessible, inclusive, and tailored to the needs and interests of young people. Participants will be encouraged to explore a wide range of art forms, from visual arts and music to performance, digital media, and beyond, while also learning about the wider arts sector and creative careers.
This new provision reflects Leicestershire Cares’ ongoing commitment to helping young people build confidence, discover their talents, and feel proud of their achievements. By offering Bronze and Silver Arts Awards, the organisation is creating meaningful pathways for young people to express themselves, gain recognition, and take their next steps - whether in education, employment, or further creative opportunities.
Leicestershire Cares looks forward to seeing young people flourish as they explore the arts and shape their own creative futures.
Aaron J Todd - Youth and community development officer.