Northern Quarter Street Art Initiative Engages 300 Local Students i...
09/12/2025 — Manchester · 3 min read
Northern Quarter Street Art Initiative Engages 300 Local Students in Manchester
Manchester's vibrant Northern Quarter street art scene is now a classroom for 300 local students, thanks to a new educational initiative launched on 9 December 2025. The programme, valued at £150,000, aims to inspire creativity and artistic skills among young people by connecting them with established street artists.
The Manchester Street Art Education Programme has partnered with local schools to provide 300 students with hands-on art workshops. This initiative, starting on 9 December, is part of a broader effort to integrate creative arts into educational curricula and is funded with an investment of £150,000. The programme focuses on utilising the city's renowned Northern Quarter street art as an educational tool, engaging students aged 12-16. These workshops, held weekly, aim to foster artistic skills and an appreciation for street art culture, contributing to the local community's creative vibrancy.
The programme is facilitated by ArtConnect, a local arts organisation committed to nurturing young talent. "This initiative provides an exciting opportunity for students who may not have previously explored their creative potential," said ArtConnect's director, Laura Benson. The Northern Quarter's street art, featuring works from artists globally, serves as an inspiring backdrop for this educational endeavour. The programme's goal is to help students express themselves artistically while understanding the cultural significance of street art in Manchester.
Programme Details
ArtConnect's programme includes interactive workshops conducted by professional street artists, allowing students to learn techniques and gain insights into the creative process. The workshops take place at local community centres in the Northern Quarter, making them easily accessible for participating schools. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to contribute to a community mural, showcasing their artwork in a public space.
The initiative has garnered significant interest from local schools. Teachers report that students are enthusiastic about participating in these workshops. As part of the programme's impact measurement, ArtConnect will conduct pre- and post-workshop surveys to assess changes in students' artistic skills and interest levels. "Before the programme, I didn't think I could draw," said 14-year-old student Jamie Carter. "Now I feel confident enough to create my own street art."
For more information or to get involved with the programme, interested parties can contact ArtConnect at info@artconnectmanchester.org or visit their website at www.artconnectmanchester.org.
Measurable Outcomes
The Manchester Street Art Education Programme is designed to deliver tangible educational benefits. By the end of the academic year in July 2026, the programme aims to have improved students' artistic skills by at least 50%, as measured through their survey responses and art assessments. In addition, students will complete a group mural project, reflecting their learning and creative growth throughout the initiative.
The £150,000 funding covers artist fees, materials, and venue costs, ensuring the programme's sustainability for the current academic year. ArtConnect plans to seek further funding to expand the programme, potentially doubling the number of participating students in the following year. The success of this initiative is expected to contribute to a broader appreciation and understanding of street art within the Manchester community.
In conclusion, the Manchester Street Art Education Programme is a significant step towards integrating art into education for young people. By leveraging the cultural richness of the Northern Quarter's street art, the initiative not only enhances students' artistic skills but also enriches their cultural experiences. The programme will continue to run through the academic year, with results to be evaluated in mid-2026. For more details or to participate, visit www.artconnectmanchester.org.
Story inspired by reporting from The Guardian.