All Saints Catholic School has become the latest school in the borough to be awarded a coveted Artsmark Gold Award. 

The Wood Lane school joins 10 others in Barking and Dagenham that have already received an honour from the Arts Council England – the highest number in the capital.

The Artsmark Award recognises schools’ commitment to unlocking young peoples’ potential through art, helping to develop their confidence and talents.

To achieve the award, All Saints Catholic School developed a plan that was delivered across the entire school for pupils of all ages.

Councillor Evelyn Carpenter, Cabinet Member for Educational Attainment and School Improvement, said: “It is wonderful that another school in our borough has gained this prestigious award and has been recognised for their tremendous efforts in developing and inspiring our young people.

“Barking and Dagenham is leading the way in having schools with this nationally recognised achievement and I look forward to seeing more of our schools achieve this coveted honour.”

Across the borough a total of 28 schools are working to or have achieved the Artsmark Award.

Headteacher of All Saints Catholic School, Clare Cantle, said: “We’re extremely proud of achieving our Artsmark Gold Award. We are committed to delivering a high-quality arts and cultural education and we look forward to continue to grow with Artsmark.” 

Schools are awarded Silver, Gold or Platinum Artsmark Award status, based on their achievements in promoting arts and culture in schools.

Darren Henley, Chief Executive of Arts Council England, congratulated the school on their award. He said: “As an Artsmark school, All Saints Catholic School exemplifies how the Award can help schools to achieve a broad and balanced curriculum, ensuring that each of its pupils is given the opportunity to explore and build a love of the arts that will remain with them as they go through adult life.”