Delivered in partnership with two local artists ‘WinnieMay’ and ‘HappyFatty’, the students' ideas were entirely their own, including the calming, blue background and ‘flowing’ style to the artwork. The mural also proudly showcases the school’s motto, and our mission of ‘Transforming Life Chances’, which the students are shining examples of through the creation of their work.
As a celebration of unity within the school, the team of students who brought the piece together reflected on how much they enjoyed it, including Warda, who said:
“Painting the mural and meeting new people was amazing; I hope I can do it again!”
There was plenty of positivity from the rest of the students, with Ade loving the opportunity to showcase the mural to their friends, and Orela who said it was ‘fun and beautiful experience’.
Miss R. Preston, Curriculum Lead for Art at The Portsmouth Academy, worked closely with the students to deliver the project and expressed her personal pride in what they’d created.
“Leading on this for the students has been a real privilege and they deserve all the credit for transforming the entrance of our Student Services department.
“I see first-hand every day the imagination our students have for creating inspiring pieces of art and it’s wonderful for them to now be able to show their hard work off to their peers.
“I’d also like to extend a special thanks to our supporting artists, without whom this project would simply have not been possible. The students benefited so much from your expertise and guidance and have now built transferable skills they’ll use for life”.
The mural demonstrates the importance of the Student Services team to the school’s community as young people used their ideas to actively shape somewhere they care about. By improving a shared space, they’re supporting the wellbeing of their peers while understanding the impact of having their voices heard.
Across the Thinking Schools Academy Trust, young people are encouraged to think creatively, to be their best self and to take an active role in shaping their communities. Through extra-curricular opportunities, they develop the skills they need to succeed at school and beyond.
Mrs S. Dedman, Headteacher at The Portsmouth Academy, championed the ‘incredible artistic talent’ on display from the students and championed them as shining examples of achievement.
“I am incredibly proud of what our students have created. This mural is about far more than transforming a space; it is about student voice, creativity and belonging.
"At The Portsmouth Academy, we want our young people to know that this is their school and that their ideas matter. Seeing them work together with such confidence and pride is exactly what we mean when we talk about transforming life chances".
Projects such as this demonstrate how the Thinking Schools Academy Trust empowers young people to become active citizens. With specialist guidance, students lead their own projects with confidence and make a meaningful contribution to the culture of their school. At The Portsmouth Academy, this mural stands as a lasting reminder of the impact of student voice and what can happen when children are trusted to create.