Horsham's groundbreaking SPARK Arts Education Program has succeeded in securing funding to deliver another two years of exciting opportunities for thousands of students across the region to participate in workshops, performance and exhibitions.
Operated through Horsham Town Hall, the program is led by SPARK Education Officers who create an annual program for schools in nine LGAs across western Victoria.
Through SPARK events, students at regional and rural school experience live performances, collaborate with professional artists, explore emerging technologies, and discover new possibilities for their future - opportunities many would not otherwise have access to.
The program has received Department of Education funding since 2022, and has now secured $174,727 through the Department of Education's Strategic Partnerships Program.
Since 2022, SPARK has:
- Delivered 79 workshops, 16 performances, and resources for 14 exhibitions
- Engaged 5,300 students across Horsham, Hindmarsh, Yarriambiack, West Wimmera, Southern Grampians, Northern Grampians, Ararat, Buloke, and Swan Hill
- Achieved 87% participation from government schools
- Led activities including live theatre, artist-led workshops, gallery tours, and the flagship SPARK VCE Arts Day exploring creative career pathways
- Been recognised by the Minister for Education as vital for curriculum enrichment and student wellbeing
"The Horsham-based SPARK program addresses major gaps in arts education for rural students caused by geographic isolation and shortage of specialist teachers," Mayor Cr Brian Klowss said.
"For the past two years it has delivered a powerful mix of immersive arts education, igniting creativity and inspiring students of all ages. This is a highly competitive funding process and Council is delighted the full amount requested was received to ensure its continued success."
