For our third IGNITE workshop, the cohort gathered once again – this time to explore two powerful and deeply connected themes: working creatively with schools and young people, and embedding mindfulness into a sustainable artistic practice.

Hosted in a supportive and reflective atmosphere, the session was split into two halves – one focused on outward connection, the other on inward care – and facilitated by Emily Eversden, Tangled Feet’s Participation Director, and Aimee Gomez, Community Producer.

 

In the first half of the day, Emily and Aimee guided the group through the practical and creative realities of delivering work in school settings. From one-off workshops to long-term collaborations, we unpacked the key skills and considerations needed to bring impactful creative experiences to young people.

We explored how to design sessions that are age-appropriate, inclusive, and inspiring – and how to navigate the real-world dynamics of the classroom. Participants generously shared past experiences and considered how to clearly communicate the value of their practice to school staff and education leads.

Enhanced DBS Check

 

Public Liability Insurance

 

Basic Safeguarding Training

 

Risk Assessments

 

Up-to-date creative CVs or portfolios

 

We rounded off this part of the day with ideas on how to make first contact with schools – through curriculum leads, local arts networks, Cultural Education Partnerships, or simply reaching out to teachers or department heads via email or phone.

The second half of the session, led by Emily, invited the cohort to shift gears and turn inward. The group took part in a mindfulness walk with their buddy – an opportunity to slow down, tune into the environment, and observe without judgment.

They returned to a calm, transformed space – complete with yoga mats, soft lighting, and quiet music – where Emily led a gentle, guided meditation practice. This moment of pause was a valuable reminder that mindfulness is not a luxury, but a vital tool for balance and longevity in a creative career.

 

 

Some mindfulness practices shared with the group included:

 

Starting or ending the day with intentional stillness

 

Using breathwork to prepare for high-energy creative spaces

 

Keeping a journal to process thoughts and emotions

 

Prioritising rest and boundary-setting as part of your professional practice

 

 

Workshop 3 offered a powerful balance: practical skills for external engagement, and restorative techniques for inner wellbeing. These dual aspects of creative life are both crucial – and IGNITE continues to hold space for both.

We’re so proud of the openness, honesty, and care the cohort brought to this session, and we’re excited to see how these tools will shape their practice moving forward.

We’ll be sharing updates soon about Workshop 4 and more from our incredible IGNITE artists.