Urban Voices is SPACE’s ongoing programme working with 14 to 16 year olds who are excluded from mainstream education or who are NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training). It provides a platform to explore thoughts and feelings, and find a public voice for young people to engage in their neighbourhood.

Short films and animations are created entirely by the participants working with artists. Activities such as model-making, virtual reality, drama, spoken word and contemporary dance inspire different ways of seeing and communicating ideas.

Visits to SPACE studios also introduce the young people to different creative processes. These inspirational visits are much enjoyed, provoking curiosity and greater understanding of how artists work, and what it means to be an artist.

Young people are learning digital skills and becoming aware of education and employment pathways in creative technology. All participants are taken through the Arts Award scheme, supported by Arts Council, England, gaining the opportunity to achieve the nationally recognised qualification.

The programme has previously involved a range of partners:
Newham PRU – Education Links, Hackney Community College, Studio Wayne McGregor, Individio, and SPACE artists. We are currently working with LEAP in Tower Hamlets and RAP in Redbridge.

Urban Voices is generously supported by BBC Children in Need and Action for Bow.