The College has been awarded Gold Artsmark status.

The college achieved specialist school status for performing arts in 2001 and has since increased the arts provision in and out of school, to extend the opportunities and enrich the main curriculum.

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The Artsmark award is a national award scheme managed by Arts Council England, to recognise schools with a high level of quality arts provision.

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Garforth Community College has achieved the award through its continued development work with young people, teachers and support staff and significantly, through its engagement in arts for the local community.

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Alan Davey, chief executive, Arts Council England, said: "Arts Council England is committed to great art for everyone and we believe that the earlier children are creatively inspired, the more likely they are to have a lifelong engagement with art. Artsmark sets the standard for an outstanding arts offer in schools and it's great to see so many new schools attaining the Artsmark award this year. The award recognises Garforth Community College's passion for the arts and belief in the power of creativity."

Dave Evans, Director of Performing arts told Garforth Today: "The Artsmark Gold award, is something that the whole college can be justifiably proud of. Arts provision within the college is comprehensive and of a very high standard. This award recognises the achievements of all students and also the very hard working staff within the college.

The culmination of the arts work each year, is The Garforth Arts Festival, which showcases the achievements of over 1,000 children and young people engaged in arts activity with the College, alongside professionals in the industry."

The Festival runs from 29th June to 11th July and this year boasts top names including Buzzcocks, Chumbawamba, Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain, African Children's Choir and Ricky Tomlinson, as well as performances from local artists.

* For further information about Garforth Community College, its Community Arts School, and Garforth Arts Festival, please visit: www.garforth.leeds.sch.uk and www.garforthartsfestival.co.uk