Thirty one students from three secondary schools in the Canberra region – with many from financially disadvantaged backgrounds – are exploring careers as artists and musicians thanks to the Australian National University.

The Smith Family and The Australian National University (ANU) have joined with local schools to deliver the SmArts creative program, for aspiring musicians and visual artists.

SmArts provides Year 9-11 students – all from communities where The Smith Family has a presence – with the opportunity to develop creative skills through intensive workshops, meet current practicing artists and musicians, and visit art-related organisations in their communities.

In Canberra, the program is delivered in partnership with ANU and runs for four Fridays throughout November, culminating in a final performance and exhibition of works on 22^nd November at the University. 

Throughout the four weeks, students will immerse themselves in interactive, hands-on music and art workshops led respectively by Georgia Pike, the convener of the Music Engagement Program, and Amanda Stuart Sculpture artist and PhD candidate.

Each workshop is supported by ANU Community Ambassadors: uni students who volunteer to work with school students and assist them in gaining insights into what studying at a university is like and providing advice on how to get there.

The program will also include music performances to local schools and care facilities, and visits to local galleries including the Canberra Museum and Art Gallery, National Gallery of Australia and National Portrait Gallery.

The Smith Family’s NSW and ACT General Manager Theresa Collignon said SmArts was just one of the many new opportunities created for Smith Family students as a result of strong partnerships between their schools and communities, to help them develop their skills, aspirations and stay engaged with their education.

“The Smith Family is proud to work with The Australian National University and other community partners, to help the schools draw on the widest possible range of resources to bring extra support and experiences to the students in Canberra we help,” Ms Collignon said.

Tania Willis, Acting Director Student Equity at The Australian National University, said she was thrilled the school students have the opportunity to work alongside uni staff and students on campus.

“We see this program as all about building aspirations and enriching education,” said Ms Willis.