AN ARRAY of artistic students at Sir James Smith's Community School in Camelford are currently creating ideas which will hopefully gain them a silver Arts Award.

The students, mostly in Year 9 but with some in Year 11, are planning projects which will gain them one of the national awards, a silver being equivalent to a grade C pass.

Projects chosen can involve music, drama, art or poetry. One of schemes will hopefully involve forming a mural at a local primary school along the theme of Cornish miners, the 'Cousin Jacks'. Year 9 pupils planning this include Jess Reynolds, Steph Trewin, Naomi Wilkins, Lynn Henderson and Chloe Hunn.

Music teacher, Jan Mann, explained that the Arts Awards are run along similar lines to the Duke of Edinburgh award scheme. The award seeks to support any young person who wishes to enjoy the arts and develop creative leadership skills.

Jan added that it is a 'natural progression' from the national singing programme 'Sing Up' which involved school children and was organised on the premise that singing has the power to change lives and help build stronger communities.

Students at Sir Jim's began their Arts Awards scheme this term and will go on to have their achievements moderated in May.

They, plus students from Year 11 and Year 7, recently were also involved in drumming and singing workshops organised by special school visitor, Gideon Muburi.

Gideon not only worked in the Music department, bringing the sounds of Africa to a Cornish school, but also organised a sale of crafts which helped raise funds for a charity which helps the victims of HIV and Aids. Jan presented him with a cheque from the school for the charity.