Creative Ambassador Programme
An opportunity for young people to gain valuable experience with Art Awards.
Creative Ambassador & Scholarship Programmes
Empowering young people through creativity, leadership and meaningful opportunities.
At Barkingside Art Club, we support children and young people to shine, discover their unique talents, and gain recognition through our Creative Ambassador and Scholarship Programmes.
These pathways open doors, nurture imagination, and help young people build the confidence and skills they need for exciting futures in the arts and beyond.
Creative Ambassador Programme (Ages 11–20)
Our Creative Ambassador Programme offers young people the chance to gain real-world creative experience, develop professional portfolios, and take part in community-led art projects.
Ambassadors are selected from our regular workshops and events based on their dedication, creativity, and potential.
What the Programme Offers
Creative Development & Mentoring
Participants receive personalised support from Arts Award Advisors and creative practitioners, working towards Silver and Gold Arts Awards (Gold is worth 16 UCAS points).
This structured mentorship helps young people develop reflective practice, project planning skills, and a strong creative identity.
Practical Work Experience
Ambassadors gain valuable experience in:
Volunteering at workshops and events
Assisting younger children through the Buddy System
Supporting community projects such as public murals and outdoor festivals
Leading creative stations and supporting SEND-friendly sessions
Young people 16+ can also access paid roles or formal volunteering positions (subject to DBS checks).
Creative Industry Exploration
Ambassadors can explore a wide range of creative fields, including:
Photography & digital media
Event planning & management
Social media and marketing
Visual arts & printmaking
Workshop delivery
Community art leadership
Blogging, writing and digital portfolios
This helps each young person find the creative pathway that suits them best.
Portfolio Building & GCSE/Alevel Support
Young people receive guided support to build strong portfolios for:
GCSE Art
ALEVEL coursework
Arts Award
College or sixth-form applications
Ambassadors may attend:
Core sessions: Saturdays 11:30am–1:30pm
Extended sessions (optional): Saturdays 10:00am–1:30pm for additional portfolio or exam support
A minimum commitment of 2 hours per week is required.
Access to Professional Resources
Ambassadors benefit from exclusive studio access and equipment, including:
IT and printing facilities
Sketchbooks and materials
Creative studio and workspace
Support in setting up blogs or digital portfolios
Scholarship Programme (Ages 11+)
Our Scholarship Programme ensures that finances never limit talent.
Scholarships may offer:
Free or subsidised workshops
Priority access to creative programmes
Additional support for gifted and talented young artists
Scholarship Opportunities Include:
Ages 11+: Fully funded places for selected workshops
Ages 16+: “Earn while you learn” opportunities alongside creative placements
Access to financial support through our Creative Access Fund
All applicants must submit examples of artwork or creative work.
Inclusivity & Equal Opportunity
We proudly support young people from:
low-income families
the care system
SEND backgrounds
diverse cultural and personal circumstances
Our programmes are designed to be accessible, inclusive, and empowering, ensuring that every young person has the opportunity to grow creatively and confidently.
Why These Programmes Matter
Our Creative Ambassador and Scholarship Programmes are more than art activities — they are pathways to possibility.
Young people develop:
leadership
confidence
resilience
communication skills
a sense of belonging
real experience for their CV or UCAS applications
They don’t just create art.
They create change, community, and a future filled with opportunity.
How to Apply or Nominate a Young Person
To join the Creative Ambassador or Scholarship Programme:
Submit a short portfolio or artwork sample
We will arrange an introductory session
For more information or support, speak to a member of our team at your next workshop.