Our History
For over a decade Arts Integrated has supported young people develop their skills in dance, design, physical theatre and music.
2012
Foundational Planning Phase
Planning Begins: Arts Integrated initiated its planning process, laying the groundwork for future courses and community engagement. The focus was on developing performing arts opportunities for disabled youth transitioning from school.
2014
Launch and Recognition
Launch of First Course: In 2014, Arts Integrated officially launched its first course. The focus was on providing performing arts programmes for disabled youth, with an emphasis on developing their skills and confidence.
Student Survey: To ensure the courses met the needs and interests of the target group, a survey was conducted with disabled youth transitioning from school. The survey results revealed that performing arts was among the top three activities these students wanted to pursue post-school. This insight helped shape the curriculum and direction of Arts Integrated’s programmes.
Award Recognition – Dynamic and Community Learning Award: In its first year of operation, Arts Integrated was awarded the Dynamic and Community Learning Award. This prestigious award recognised the organisation’s excellence, innovation, and the strong partnerships it had formed.
It also celebrated Arts Integrated’s commitment to “giving things a go,” promoting active citizenship, strengthening whānau/family connections, and making a positive impact on the community. This award highlighted the organisation’s early success and its ability to meet the needs of the community.
2015
Growth, Collaboration and Impact
Highly Commended by Arts Access Aotearoa: Arts Integrated was recognized for its creative partnerships and commitment to inclusive arts, receiving a Highly Commended award for its work with disabled individuals.
Film Projects with Civil Defence Canterbury: Arts Integrated produced two films on emergency preparedness with Civil Defence Canterbury, using humour to raise awareness about safety across the country.
Dance Performance at Canterbury Fashion Week: The organisation created a dance for the opening of Canterbury Fashion Week, showcasing student talents and promoting confidence and skill development.
Formation of Arts Integrated Trust: In 2015, Arts Integrated became an independent trust, moving away from its previous alignment with Arts Access Aotearoa to manage its own growth.
Collaboration with Hagley Community College: Arts Integrated adopted Hagley Community College’s numeracy and literacy outcomes to ensure students received a well-rounded education alongside their arts training.
Student Assessments: Each year, student progress in numeracy and literacy is assessed to ensure holistic educational support alongside the arts curriculum.
End-of-Year Viewing: The organisation holds an annual “viewing” event to showcase student achievements, with over 100 attendees at the most recent event, highlighting growing community support.