Ann Maguire Arts Education Fund 2022

The Ann Maguire Arts Education Fund was established in 2015, in memory of Leeds art teacher Ann Maguire. Ann had a gift of identifying potential in her pupils, while giving them encouragement to realise their goals. In her honour, the Fund continues her work by enabling and developing the aspirations of young people.  

This round of the Fund focused on the wellbeing benefits that come with taking part in the arts, as well as the soft skills that young people gain from extra-curricular activities. The Social Mobility Commission reports that “Wide parts of life experience gained from extracurricular activities are unavailable for the most marginalised groups in society”. This means that many young people are missing out on experiences that help them to develop vital life skills. Children and young people from low-income households are particularly affected. 

Funded organisations 

Thanks to the Ann Maguire Arts Education Fund, 6 Community Organisations in Leeds will be running arts education activities in their communities. In total, over £50,000 was invested through these grants. 

The funded organisations are:  

• • • • Alive And Kicking Theatre Company  
      • Brave Words CIC  
      • DJ School UK  

• • • • Kidz Klub  
      • Sunshine and Smiles – Leeds Down Syndrome Network  
      • The Music Box Yorkshire CIC  

Funded activities 

The programme funded a range of arts education activities, for example:  

• • • • Youth-led DJ Clubs, where young people can record themselves and perform to peers, as well as at events. Participants will be encouraged to mentor others in this project, which will raise self-esteem and confidence.  
      • A range of activities to engage young people in the arts, some for the first time. Planned activities include theatre trips, pottery workshops and dance workshops, as well as a trip to a West End Show.  
      • A programme of music activity for children and young people focusing on music making. Participants will be able to play musical instruments, perform live music in bands, sing and write songs.  

All of the organisations have received funding to deliver their activities over two years, until summer 2024. We look forward to sharing more about the impact of the funding as delivery progresses.  

If you’d like to read more about DAZL, one of the organisations funded through a previous round of the Ann Maguire Arts Education Fund, you can do so here.  

For more information on grants awarded, visit the What We’ve Funded page.