Rayleigh and Wickford MP, Mark Francois recently visited Wickford Junior School to celebrate their achievement of an Artsmark Gold award from the Arts Council England.
This is the first time Mark has visited the school since the town of Wickford became part of his revised constituency at the General Election earlier this year. Mark was given a tour of the school and was shown some of the artwork which has earned the school this award. Mark also spoke to the pupils during school assembly and congratulated them on their achievement in obtaining this important recognition from a national body.
Artsmark provides a benchmark for arts provision and is awarded to schools who are particularly successful in promoting the arts including in areas such as drama, dance, music and design. Wickford Junior School has a strong record in promoting the arts and this was acknowledged by the Arts Council in their decision.
Speaking after the visit, Mark Francois said:
“I was pleased to visit Wickford Junior School and to see the wonderful work of the pupils and staff which has earned the school this award and which is an important achievement. I am pleased that we are encouraging such artistic talent in Wickford from an early age.”