Silver Arts Award

Steven has submitted the following article to the Arts Award regional magazine and it has been accepted for publication. Good stuff Steven!

Arts Award Event Review

By Steven Matthews

On Saturday July 31^st at 2pm an enthusiastic group of young fathers and mothers began to arrive at the Platform Youth Centre in Swindon.

They came from all different locations including Salisbury, Melksham, Paignton and Swindon.

They were here to hold an event, which many had organised as part of their Silver Arts Award.

The event was also being used to celebrate the successes of a young fathers group called Dads Matter Too which was set up a few years ago by founders Mike and Carolyn White, who were due to retire soon after the event.

The group of young fathers along with their tutor Mike had enjoyed recognition for their efforts, locally and nationally which included guest spots on various radio stations and the BBC Breakfast Show and even won two awards for their impact in the media and within communities.

The event took place inside a kitted out train carriage, which had been installed within the centre.

On entering it was clear that the five arts students had planned the event in great detail and seemed well organised.

They had even prepared a wide selection of food and drink for the event.

While waiting for attendees to arrive the room was filled with anticipation and excitement as many were deep in conversation, catching up with old friends and associates.

Once everyone had arrived the students made a few last minute checks then the event was underway.

It started with an introduction and a warm welcome before making preferences to the group, its achievements and detailing the agenda for the event.

Two photography students took their places ready to take photos of the event as another student took to the stage to perform a rap, which he had written for Mike, in recognition to the dedication, help and support he had provided for the group over the years.

The performance was followed by applause before the next act stepped up to perform.

After giving a short introduction a poem was read by one of the students, which he had written about his interpretation of the ongoing war.

He then finished his performance with a bow and rejoined the applauding group.

There was then a heartfelt speech from tutor Mike, who was honoured by the event and performances and reflected on the positive influence the young fathers group has had around the country.

The event then concluded with a group picture and a ‘thank you’ speech from some of the group and a display of photography and lyrics from the arts course.