Students from 11 schools across the Tweed Community of Small Schools came together at Crabbes Creek Public School for a creative enrichment day designed to extend young artists and nurture student talent.

Students, from Years 3 to 6 with an interest in art, spent the day developing their drawing and painting skills with experienced artist and educator Janet Stone, co-owner of Flying Fox Studios.

The day was part of the schools’ shared commitment to providing enrichment and extension opportunities for students in small public schools. It also supports the NSW Department of Education’s High Potential and Gifted Education (HPGE) focus, with the workshop linked to the Creative domain.

 Crabbes Creek Public School hosted 40 students and teachers from Crabbes Creek Public, Condong Public, Crystal Creek Public, Chillingham Public, Burringbar Public, Dungay Public, Duranbah Public, Fingal Public, Tumbulgum Public, Tyalgum Public and Stokers Siding Public School.

Crabbes Creek Public School Principal, Brev Belleville, said the event showed the strength of small schools working together.

“By collaborating through the Tweed Community of Small Schools, we are able to offer students additional opportunities in areas they are passionate about,” Ms Belleville said.

“This Art Enrichment Day gives students, who have a strong interest in visual arts, the chance to learn from a specialist facilitator, build their confidence and connect with other young artists from nearby schools.

“It is a wonderful example of small public schools working together to create rich learning experiences for students.”

 During the workshop, students completed two artworks, one drawing and a painting while exploring creative techniques and developing their skills.

The day was facilitated by Janet Stone, who has been teaching adults and children in schools and community settings for more than 35 years. Janet originally trained and worked as a primary school teacher, with a major in art, and has continued her own art practice through teaching, exhibitions and community programs.

 Since establishing Flying Fox Studios in 2006, with daughter Karen and friend Leanne, Janet has helped develop programs including ZoomArt, Fox Blocks and TreeHouse, sharing her passion for art, imagination, curiosity and active learning.