Art Squad (Summer 26)

🎨✨ Join our ART SQUAD! ✨🎨

Looking for a fun and inspiring space to explore your creativity? The Art Squad is the perfect place to unleash your imagination!

🌟 For ages 9-12
When: Every Monday from 13 January - 13 July 2026 (no class 04 & 25 May) 5:15 PM - 6:15 PM

Tickets: £5.50 drop in or £60 for the term equating to 12 sessions at a discounted rate.

What to Expect: 🖌️ Hands-on art activities
- Fun projects designed to spark creativity
- A chance to make new friends
- Explore different art techniques and mediums
- And much more in a supportive, inspiring environment!

Tutor: Helena Marchese

Helena Marchese is a printmaker and illustrator based in The New Forest, Hampshire. She works in traditional and print media with an interest in dry point, type, letterpress and collage of found materials. Her work responds to lived experience and observations drawing out narratives that are thought provoking, charming and unique. She has exhibited her work locally and regionally including The St Barbe Open 2024 and The Royal West of England Academy 171st Open Exhibition 2024-2025. She is an exhibiting member of Poole Printmakers. Helena has a wealth of experience working with children, young people with learning disabilities and autism and adults with dementia and their carers delivering tailored workshops with a focus on experimentation, exploration, accessibility and inclusion. She has worked with local organisations including SPUDworks, St Barbe Museum and Art Gallery and Scarf New Forest as well as providing outreach sessions in local schools and nursing homes.

Class Expectations

To help us create a calm, safe, and supportive space for every child, we kindly ask parents and carers to keep the following in mind when attending classes:

Drop-off and pick-up
Where possible, we encourage parents to settle their child at the start of the session and then return at the end, once the tutor opens the door. This helps children grow in confidence, develop independence, and build a positive connection with their tutor.

Parent presence
If you choose to remain in the room, we ask that you allow the session to be led by our trained practitioners. Giving children space to engage independently helps them get the most from the experience.

During the session
To maintain a calm and consistent learning environment, we ask that parents and carers avoid stepping in unless invited to do so by the tutor. Our team is there to support all children and guide the session safely.

Language and behaviour
We appreciate everyone using respectful language and behaviour within the space. This ensures a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere for children, families, and staff alike.

By booking a class, you’re helping us uphold these shared expectations. Thank you for supporting us in creating a positive, empowering experience for every child.