This 5-day seminar examines the success of new structures and models of engagement within Higher Education in the Arts in the UK. The issues discussed are relevant across artforms and countries, and include:

• Balancing economic imperatives while keeping creativity at the heart of activity
• positive and creative models for delivering quality assurance models, employability, creative industries, knowledge transfer and financial targets
• relationships between the traditional and the new: traditional artforms, methodologies and new approaches, articulating cultural identity in a national and global context
• new partnerships between educational institutions and communities, commercial and other cultural organisations and interests; synergy and mutual benefit
• the development of individual creativity: through supportive and challenging approaches; mentoring; capitalising on peer success.

The seminar is based in the Capital city of Edinburgh, and the programme includes day-long visits to three more Scottish cities; Glasgow, Dundee and St. Andrews. Each day participants visit higher education and cultural institutions highlighting innovation in creative education, with an introduction given by their directors.

Speakers from across the UK present key issues and develop them in debate with the delegates. An opportunity for participants to briefly introduce the work of their own institution, or highlight issues of importance to them, is provided in ‘soap-box’ sessions. Plenty of time is allowed to develop contacts and discuss issues in an informal atmosphere.

The programme is cross-arts. Time for optional visits to additional venues also allows participants to tailor the agenda to their individual interests.

Who should attend this event
Principals and Heads of Schools and Departments in Higher Education in the arts, continuing education specialists, Cultural Ministry officers, British Council officers, arts administrators and anyone interested in arts education at post school level.