A WIDNES school is celebrating after being awarded a silver Artsmark award.

Oakfield Primary School on Edinburgh Road has been accredited by Arts Council England for actively championing high-quality art and cultural education within their curriculum.

Head teacher Catherine Khan, said:“I am very proud of Oakfield staff and their hard work and dedication to the children at our school.

"Artsmark silver is yet another quality mark we have achieved as we strive to achieve the highest standards of education for our children.

"Artsmark will now be added to our other quality marks, which include basic skills (maths and English), inclusion, science, PE, healthy schools and eco-schools.

"Oakfield is also a certified Forest School, with a qualified Forest School teacher to provide an enriched outdoor curriculum.”

To achieve Artsmark silver status, Oakfield had to demonstrate its commitment to incorporating art and culture into every student’s life and learning, as well as showing ambitious plans for the future.

The school will now continue this journey with the support of Curious Minds, the Arts Council England appointed regional agency for creative and cultural education for the north west.

As part of its statement of commitment, Oakfield School highlighted the strengths of its art, design technology, IT, dance, drama and music provision.

Culture and creativity increases pupils’ confidence, critical thinking, communication and literacy skills, improving attainment and bringing core subjects to life.

Darren Henley, chief executive of Arts Council England, said: “I would like to congratulate Oakfield School on achieving Artsmark and welcome them into our growing family of Artsmark schools.

"To become and Artsmark school, Oakfield had to demonstrate its dedication to the arts. It has put together an ambitious plan which will ensure that each of its pupils is given the opportunity to explore and build a love of the arts that will remain with them as they go through adult life.”