High Peak Arts: Creative Camp

High Peak Arts, based in Buxton ran their Creative Camp aimed at participants aged 8 years and older. A total of 38 young people aged 9-16 attended throughout the week, activities included writing songs, creating characters and stories, and building an underwater world which was brought to life with projections and sound effects.

One of the participants, aged 12, is currently home-schooled due to difficulty transitioning from primary to secondary education. Whilst the participant is currently awaiting an assessment for Autism Spectrum Disorder, they have been experiencing extreme levels of anxiety and as a result, have struggled to leave their room throughout the past two years.

After receiving a placement on the High Peak Arts’ one-to-one Creative Mentoring programme, working directly with the clubs’ creative mentor Frances, their parent was keen for their child to build on the progress they had made at home and the camp seemed to come at the right time.

“My child drew a picture from one of the feelings cards that the coaches brought, they painted their CD and made glasses for their teddy at Easter! Thanks for all your hard work and support.” Parent of Participant

The participant attended two days of the programme, creating a fantastic piece of art which they were incredibly proud to take home. Although the participant found interacting with the wider group challenging, they were encouraged to bring a friend along to the session for moral support and even began to relax and engage with smaller groups of young people over the two days.

“In their final session with Frances, the participant reflected that people can come together to do things that aren’t possible on their own. This is a huge step for both the vulnerable young person, but also for their family who are desperate to find a path for their child to lead a fulfilling life. We have ongoing project work which we hope they will be able to access – but funding for this work is under threat and some projects, as well as the Creative Mentoring mentioned above, are due to close ” Sophie Mackreth, High Peak Community Arts