Jockey Club “Arts & Actions” Project —
The Absolutely Fabulous Theatre Connection “Arts for Empowerment ”
This is a 44-month project focusing on developing an arts-based curriculum in conversation with teachers, social workers and students from schools for Social Development from 2019 to 2022. As part of the Special Education Needs system, AFTEC created a diverse educational space for teachers, social workers and students at the two involved schools: Tung Wan Mok Law Shui Wah School and Caritas Mother Teresa School, as well as to assist the former in developing black box theatre.
This project broadens the artistic horizon for teachers and students through Cultural Days, Foundation workshops for teachers and AFTEC Lab. “Arts for Change” was adopted as an alternative approach to facilitate students’ self-understanding and the development of their individual potential through applying the power of the arts to foster layered and nuanced emotional connections.
1
Train the Trainers workshop
236.5
hours of regular classes
118
students
2
special educational needs schools
20
artist educators
49
principals, school teachers & social workers
1
Train the Artists workshop
Caritas Mother Teresa School
Lower secondary students discovered and developed their interests through different taster sessions in arts technology subjects that encouraged creative thinking and expression. The styling course undertaken by upper secondary students gave them a chance to dive deeper into costume design, make-up and hair styling. Apart from gaining professional knowledge, students were able to connect through the arts, empowering their voices and stimulating their imagination.
These arts education classes were a truly unique way of learning. We were amazed by the imaginative nature of the activities. Sometimes it was difficult to hold onto the primary intention of arts education when faced with our students’ reactions, but learning to find a balance was my key takeaway during the Train the Trainer workshops.
Ng Mei Kei
Teacher, Caritas Mother Teresa School
What I enjoyed and got into the most in the “Arts & Actions” project was getting hands on with the activity or doing the make-up myself. After taking part, my greatest discovery is that I am sure my future will be in the make-up industry.
Law Wai Man
F5 Student, Caritas Mother Teresa School
Tung Wan Mok Law Shui Wah School
Through observing, listening, feeling, imagining and interpreting, students learned to create stories and characters. Through these stories, students reflected on interpersonal relationships and values, giving rise to a platform to voice their feelings and emotions. Secondary school students took part as director and actors, collaborating to produce a podcast. They developed connection and empathy through role play, which changed the way they viewed and perceived things.
The arts tutors helped students enjoy the activities, find their individual talents and also increase their confidence. The relationship between the “Arts & Actions” activities, teaching and daily life gave me much food for thought. I intend to observe and reflect upon the student’s drama activities.
Chow Yim Ling
Teacher, Tung Wan Mok Law Shui Wah School
My biggest achievement after taking part in the project is that I can now look people in the eye when talking to them. I am not afraid anymore.
Student, Tung Wan Mok Law Shui Wah School
