Students at Clatterford Tuition Centre on the Isle of Wight, took time out recently to look at life through a lens as part of a Summer Photography Project.

Students were allowed creative license to produce wonderful artworks and expand their knowledge of digital photography.  Taking time out at Ventnor Botanic Garden to focus on photography, was an excellent idea,  as this also allowed the students the opportunity of entering the Isle of Wight Photographer of the Year Competition 2009 (IWPOY).

The IWPOY judges were overwhelmed by the quality and imagination of the submitted images.  The organisers of the competition who have no influence on the judging were not allowed to publicise in advance, but anxious to announce the amazing photographic impact of the Clatterford students work. 

At Clatterford both staff and students dedicate a lot of time and effort to the art programme, which makes for success. Students are encouraged to produce a good standard of work which makes a genuine impact on their time at the centre. Students captured the best the Island has to offer.

In presenting the shortlist certificates, IWPOY Judge: Bob Aylott gave a special mention to the youngest lady photographer 14 yr old Roxanne for her image (displayed above) ‘Crazy Daisy’.

Response from Student: ‘I didn’t used to like Art but now it is one of my favourite subjects’

Art Coordinator Juliet said:

Clatterford students completed the Digital Photography project with a view to submitting images for the IWPOY competition on the theme ‘it’s a small world’. Examining microscopic formations students looked at making the everyday appear extraordinary which helped them to consider composition, colour, texture and surface details.  Students went onto learn digital camera functions and used these to produce a range of macro images on ‘Animal, mineral, vegetable and manmade’ themes.

The students clearly enjoyed working on this project perhaps because digital technology allows students freedom to take risks and experiment with multiple images without fear of ‘making mistakes’. Viewing digital images on a computer provides a different perspective allowing them to select their favourite compositions for their final body of work. 

As part of  our ‘Healthy Lifestyles’ project week students took off, armed with cameras, on a ‘Magical Mystery Tour’ to explore the Islands landscape and biodiversity. Ventnor Botanical Gardens provided a wealth of imagery resulting in some stunning photography. As a reward students who managed their behaviour during off site visits were awarded disposable cameras.

Back in the classroom some images were further developed using Photoshop filters and effects. Students had the opportunity to turn their chosen images into digital transfers to produce canvas pictures and as part of ourYoung Enterprise Initiative selected images have been printed as greeting cards.

Celebrating Creative Achievements:

Confidence and attitude has shown to significantly improve, which is evident in student self evaluation. Work produced often exceeds student’s expectations which in turn creates pride and self belief.   As a centre we are proud of both the creative achievements and the commitment students have shown towards their work.  We are keen to provide positive learning opportunities for all our students and to celebrate student’s creative achievements within the wider community.

Response from Student: ‘I like this school as there is more choice in the lessons’

Art Coordinator Juliet added:

‘The art programme is key to encouraging hard-to-reach students to re-engage and develop a sense of achievement. Working on creative projects has many benefits and challenges and the impact of this can make connections with even the most troubled young person. During our art sessions students are encouraged to work on sustained projects giving a sense of ownership and responsibility.

It is hoped that by working in this way students will feel ownership of their work, develop confidence and self esteem, learn about decision making and remain motivated and focused. It is hoped that they can then transfer some of these skills into other aspects of their lives’

Clatterford Tuition Centre:  Clatterford is a KS3&4 Pupil Referral Unit based on the outskirts of Newport. The Centre caters for young people with social, emotional and behavioural difficulties who are at risk of exclusion or who have been permanently excluded from mainstream school.

The excellent response from Clatterford students has instigated the Isle of Wight ‘Young’ Photographer of the Year category to be launched for 16 yrs and under in 2010. For more details on the IWPOYvisit  www.iwpoy.org