A Creative Practitioner (281 Words)

Ben Milne is a creative practitioner working in Ashgrove Special School for children with autism. Milne has created and developed a creative curriculum to help develop children with these specific learning needs.
In a recent lecture within UWTSD Milne explained in detail how a creative curriculum can help engage children that are hard to engage in the processes of learning.

Creativity within any learning environment is important as employers require creative thinkers and risk takers in today's society.  As Milne explained that self expression through creativity is a form of communication, and a vessel for self-esteem and confidence through positive feedback for a personal creation.  Developing creativity also develops risk-taking, children learn that it is acceptable to make mistakes and start again.

The use of creativity within the classroom allows pupils to; think for themselves and re-contextualize original ideas; develops fine motor skills; opens up opportunities to communicate, discuss and debate; and develops essential life skills such as finance, cookery, and interaction with others.

Milne explained for a fully creative environment you need space, time and a safe calm atmosphere to promote meaningful activities and pupil engagement. It is also imperative to create a positive relationship between pupil and staff.

To engage the learner Milne spoke of ideas to use within the classroom:

• A shop
• A radio station
• Games
• Musical instruments
• Web tools
• Photography
• Nature/ Outdoor activities
• Film/ Recording studio
• Animation

To me it is clear that, even though Milne creative curriculum is designed for children with learning difficulties, this curriculum would be successful within any learning environment and in all subjects of the curriculum within cross-curricular lessons, thus engaging pupils in a system of learning that they find engaging and relevant.