Students from across East Kent showcased their creativity in a new exhibition, Connection, Place, Belonging, developed through the East Kent Schools Together (EKST) partnership.
The exhibition is the culmination of a print making project, as part of a collaborative initiative across independent and state schools, and alongside Canterbury Christ Church University. Designed to broaden access to high-quality art education, the project enabled students to participate in a series of printmaking workshops hosted across partner schools.
Throughout the programme, students explored a range of techniques –including gel printing, monoprinting, collagraph printing, and photograms –while responding to key questions around identity, community, and belonging. The resulting work reflects a wide range of personal perspectives, rooted in students’ own experiences of place and connection.
Students have described the project as “eye-opening”, “creative”, and “thoughtful”, reflecting both its artistic and personal impact. Children from The Archbishop’s School highlighted the confidence and skills they developed:
“With my piece I have learnt different skills that will help me, especially in the future, with ideas for my new art project.” – Jasmine
“Whilst taking part in the East Kent Schools Together art workshops, I have learnt new skills and techniques which have boosted my confidence in my art style.” – Ella
“From taking part in the East Kent Schools Together workshops I have discovered new skills that have helped my understanding and confidence with using ink and exploring my love for where I live.” – Susanna
The exhibition also demonstrates the wider value of partnership working within education. By connecting schools with different contexts and resources, EKST creates opportunities for collaboration, shared learning, and enrichment – particularly benefiting students who may otherwise have limited access to specialised arts provision.
Hosted at the Daphne Oram Gallery at Canterbury Christ Church University, and funded by a generous donor, the exhibition provides students with the experience of presenting their work in a professional gallery environment. Each piece has been carefully curated by Paul Russell of CCCU, and individually framed with bespoke support from Hawkswell Picture Framers.
Kathryn McArdle, Artist, said “It has been an absolute privilege to work with these students as they explored the themes of Connection, Place, Belonging. Watching the students grow in confidence as they explored new printmaking techniques whilst building bridges across different school communities has been incredibly inspiring. The powerful body of work filling the gallery today is a true testament to their dedication and having their creations showcased in a professional environment is a well-deserved celebration of their hard work.”
Curator and Assistant Manager of Arts and Culture, Canterbury Christ Church University, Paul Russell, agreed that the standard of work was incredible: “I have many favourites that change every time I look around the show. It was lovely to meet the artists and listen to them talk about their work, so much thought and effort has gone into what they’ve produced.
“As the Curator here at Canterbury Christ Church University, I was really pleased to showcase their artwork as part of the University’s exhibitions programme.”
The Chair of EKST and Head of Kent College added: “Connection, Place, Belonging brought together students from across the partnership, showing how creative collaboration can build a strong sense of community. Projects like this introduce new skills and approaches for both students and teachers, while helping to break down barriers between young people from different backgrounds.
“I am delighted to see the results of this collaboration, not only in the finished artworks, but in the new friendships and shared experiences that were developed along the way.”
This exhibition highlights the strength of collaboration in education, celebrating both artistic achievement and the importance of connection across schools, communities, and places in East Kent.
Connection, Place, Belonging | CCCU is open to the public on Saturday 4 July from 10am.