A PROJECT has been launched to inspire schoolchildren to explore climate change, biodiversity and personal development through the lens of art and design.
The Gem of the Sea initiative, organised by local charity ArtHouse Jersey, also aims to give young people the tools to express their ideas creatively and the opportunity to respond to global challenges.
The programme, funded by the Coop Community Fund and the government, takes its title from Jersey’s unofficial national anthem, Beautiful Jersey.
It will deliver six “episodes” throughout the 2024/2025 academic year to provide teachers with educational resources aimed at schoolchildren aged eight to 14.
Each episode will tackle different themes: Jersey’s coastline, fishing and farming, emotional wellbeing, liberty and freedom, and safety at sea.
ArtHouse Jersey curriculum adviser Kate Sugden said: “Gem of the Sea empowers children and young people to explore climate change through the lens of art and design, giving them the tools to express their ideas, connect with others, and creatively respond to the potential challenges of our modern and future world.
“Driven by the voices of our children and young people across the education sector, this initiative enriches and modernises the art and design curriculum to reflect the local and global context, fostering a generation that is prepared to lead with imagination, resilience and a deep sense of community.”
Artist and educator Jacque Rutter, who contributed to the project, described it as “an educational resource which will help pupils explore important issues affecting Jersey such as climate change and personal freedom through creativity”.
She continued: “This series of short films, with teacher resources, focuses on the development of skills and knowledge links to on-Island agencies and cross-curriculum links.”
She added that the series showcased a diverse range of artists and aims to inspire students to become future “guardians” of Jersey’s environment.
