Deliver inspiring creative opportunities for young people in Sunderland
The Culture Start programme is committed to providing creative opportunities for young people in Sunderland who are facing hardship or challenging circumstances. We’re seeking freelancers or organisations with a strong creative or artistic practice and experience working in youth and/or community settings to collaborate with us on delivering our exciting programme.
Who we’re looking for
We welcome submissions from artists, creative practitioners and organisations who:
- Are based in Sunderland / the North East of England
- Have expertise in a creative or artistic practice (e.g. visual arts, music, drama, dance, writing, digital arts, etc.)
- Have experience working with young people aged 5-19 or up to 25 with SEND (Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities)
- Are skilled in facilitating engaging, inclusive, and accessible group sessions
What we’re looking for
One-off creative sessions
We are looking for engaging workshops of 1.5 – 2hrs in length, suitable for groups of approximately 15 – 20 participants. Workshops must be age-appropriate for one of our three cohorts:
- Ages 5-11
- Ages 12-18
- Mixed ages, SEND and/or disabilities
These sessions should spark creativity, be fun, build confidence and foster connection among participants.
Creative projects (one session per week, over 4-6 weeks)
We are interested in projects designed to run weekly over 4-6 weeks, focusing on the development of creative skills and group participation in an artistic practice. Projects should be suitable for groups of up to 20 children in the following age ranges:
- Ages 7-11
- Ages 12-18
Our groups are mixed ability, so projects should:
- Encourage inclusion for all participants
- Deliver artistic outcomes that satisfy various levels of creative potential
Sessions will be delivered in community settings across Sunderland and are supported with an additional Culture Start staff member.
Why work with us?
This is an opportunity to:
- Make a positive difference in the lives of young people facing challenging circumstances.
- Showcase your creative skills with new audiences
- Develop your creative practice and learning
- Be part of an ambitious programme that celebrates creativity and community.
Fee
An artist fee and budget for materials is available. Please indicate in the Expression of Interest your fee.
How to apply
Please complete our expression of interest form which asks about your creative work and experience, your fees, and your contact details so we can stay in touch.
Facilitators for Culture Start Programme in Sunderland employer: Sunderland Culture
Sunderland Culture is an exceptional employer that values transparency, collaboration, and professional growth. Located at the National Glass Centre in Sunderland, we offer a supportive work environment where you can thrive as a Finance Manager, with opportunities to develop your skills while contributing to our mission in the charity sector. Our commitment to employee well-being includes a competitive pension scheme and holiday entitlement, ensuring a balanced work-life experience.
