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It's time to think about the long-term impact of the pandemic on schools. Giving artists space to work sensitively and in depth with children, young people and teachers will make all the difference, says Sarah Bailey.

“The arts have been pushed down in schools, and now we're remembering that they are essential.”

This is the response of one St Helens school teacher as we chat on the 'phone about what the future might hold for arts organisations and artists who work with schools.

It’s a sentiment echoed by other teachers I speak with. After a global experience of sickness, isolation and worry, there is a sense that it is more essential than ever that we make space and time to work together through creative endeavour.

Of course, the cultural sector has continued to reach and respond to children and young people during COVID-19. We've focused on broadcasting content and, where we can, amending our participatory practice for online spaces. We have delivered creative packs to put materials into the hands of those who don't have access to them. We've begun to create more outdoor work.

But what we must think about now is the impact of the pandemic on children, young people, teachers and schools longer-term. What are the implications for our practice? How do we collaborate and show solidarity with our collaborators in education as we move into a new academic year?... Keep reading on Heart of Glass