South-East region
“Sprouts of artists”,
When artistic practices
become a tool for academic engagement
At Sainte-Claire secondary school of Apprentis d’Auteuil, In Dieupentale (82), students have been participating in the Sprouts of artists, a multidisciplinary journey that immerses them in a variety of practices: visual arts, creative workshops,exploring and practicing
the Arts of the Compagnons. Under the guidance of specialized instructors, students explore artistic and craft techniques in an environment designed to foster creativity, self-confidence, and cultural openness.
Project supported by the Fondation Foujita.
Incorporating art into students’ daily lives
Believing that artistic activities and cultural engagement provide young people with opportunities to express themselves, develop their identities, and open up to others and the world, the school has incorporated these options into the students’ curriculum. The objectives are:
- Strengthening commitment, perseverance, and a love of learning
- Recognition of their prior learning for the purpose of earning the National Middle School Diploma
- Strengthening their sense of belonging and motivation through the experience of a group project
- Creating a school culture where art is integrated into students’ daily lives
Artistic practices as a catalyst for citizenship
Several complementary programs have been launched: the Arts des Compagnons workshops, the creative workshops, and the Art Gallery. These spaces for experimentation allow young people to explore a variety of techniques—from woodcarving to glassblowing—and to create a wide range of works, such as mosaics, leather pieces, decorated candles, and even a collaborative stained-glass window installed in the school chapel.
As for the creative workshops, which are very popular, they encourage students to create for their own enjoyment, to decorate their homes, or to give as gifts—whether through sewing, candle-making, or upcycling projects. The Arts Gallery also works to promote creativity in everyday life, offering students the opportunity to display their work for everyone to see.
Together, these workshops foster artistic curiosity, build self-esteem and self-confidence, and help create a positive environment based on mutual support, creativity, and personal growth.
“The young people are very grateful for the knowledge and insights they’ve gained—both about different careers and about their manual skills, some of which had gone untapped until now. The groups are energetic and eager to learn more.”
As part of the school’s core mission, these opportunities for artistic expression and cultural engagement give students the chance to collaborate on a unique collective project inspired by their own experiences. At the same time, they help foster a sense of community: group cohesion, acceptance of differences—particularly toward students with disabilities—acceptance of diversity, mutual support, and more.
These workshops are particularly in line with the school’s commitment to the ÉCHO educational innovation program, which aims to prevent academic failure among students facing the greatest challenges.
To date, more than 200 students have participated in the Sprouts of artists program, which combines theoretical concepts with practical artistic skills during their time at Sainte-Claire d’Apprentis d’Auteuil Middle School.
Flip through the booklet to see photos from the workshop!
