Chroma, the UK’s only national provider of arts therapy services, has seen an increase in demand from mainstream schools to provide art therapy sessions for pupils requiring more supported learning or with special education needs.
Over the past year Chroma has seen a shift in attitude from mainstream schools to the use of arts therapy as an effective means of supporting SEN pupils.
The use of arts therapy is proven to better engage with pupils, achieve higher levels of development and provide additional support not previously seen outside of independent special needs schools.
Arts therapy helps a wide range of students
Arts therapy sessions provided by Chroma within schools help students who have learning difficulties, physical disabilities, emotional and behavioural difficulties, as well as those who have experienced abuse, trauma or bereavement.
The sessions vary depending on students’ individual goals, but can range from music therapy to drama therapy and art therapy.
Pupils can paint, draw, sing, play musical instruments and take part in storytelling or roleplay activities to help them communicate concerns as well as help understand changes in their emotional well-being.
For those pupils facing a physical challenge, arts therapy can help motivate, stimulate and regulate movement.
Relevant and effective support
Chroma works directly with the teachers, pupils and parents to provide the most relevant and effective support, as well as ensure the benefits gained from the therapy are transferred into the classroom and beyond.
Chroma realise the real importance of keeping SEN pupils within the mainstream school system. Therapy sessions like this are a step forward in improving the level of care and support non-specialist schools can provide to all students.
Daniel Thomas, managing director of Chroma, said: “It’s important for pupils with special needs to be able to continue their education within a mainstream school, if possible, and arts therapy sessions have proven to be an effective way for schools to help pupils who need extra support.
“Our goals match those of the teachers, parents and pupils, allowing us to provide engaging and fun sessions that help each pupil not only grow as an individual but also translate into the classroom with improved progress.
“As we work with more schools, more are seeing the positive impact of our arts therapy services on their pupils.”
