The Arts Award: Explore qualification empowers young people to discover the arts world through hands-on experience and guided learning. This accessible, entry-level award develops creative skills, builds confidence, and provides a nationally recognized qualification as children engage with diverse art forms, connect with creative professionals, and showcase their talents through customized projects.
By completing Arts Award: Explore, children gain more than just a certificate – they develop critical thinking abilities, enhance their communication skills, and establish foundations for lifelong creative engagement. The qualification seamlessly integrates with school curricula while offering flexibility for extracurricular programs, making it an ideal stepping stone for young people beginning their artistic journey and preparing for higher-level Arts Awards.
Three simple steps:
Step 1
Sign up. The fee for Arts Award Explore is £47.50, which includes the printed booklet, all registration and moderation costs and a certificate for your child, if they complete it successfully. sign up here
Step 2
Complete the booklet (supported by you, or independently). They can add pictures, words, ideas, even voice recordings and video - however they want to talk about their relationship with ballet.
Step 3
Return the booklet via your teacher for moderation. Our senior teacher will evaluate your child's work, suggest any areas for development, log it with Trinity College, and, hopefully, issue your child's certificate.
FAQs
The Explore level is an introductory Arts Award qualification designed for young people who have completed the Discover award. It provides a structured yet flexible framework for children to discover different art forms and creative disciplines. At this level, participants complete four parts: exploring the arts as participants, experiencing the arts as audience members, researching artists and their work, and sharing their experiences with others. Explore is assessed through a portfolio of evidence and can typically be completed in 25-35 hours. This qualification is regulated by Ofqual at Entry Level 3 on the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF), making it a recognized stepping stone before progressing to the Bronze Arts Award.
The Explore level is perfect for young people beginning their creative journey. This entry-level qualification welcomes children with any level of arts experience – from complete beginners to those with some creative background. There are no specific prerequisites, making it accessible to all young people who show interest in discovering different art forms. Explore is designed to be inclusive and adaptable.
Arts Award: Explore is designed for younger participants who are ready to discover and enjoy the arts. While suitable for a range of ages, it's particularly ideal for children in primary and early secondary education. There's no strict age requirement - what matters most is enthusiasm and interest in creative activities. If your child is curious about the arts and wants to try different creative experiences, Explore could be perfect for them!
To complete the Explore level, your child will enjoy four creative activities. They'll participate in different art forms (like music, drama, or crafts), experience arts events as an audience member, discover artists and their work, and share what they've learned with others. All activities are designed to be fun and engaging, with flexibility to match your child's interests. They'll collect evidence of their journey in a portfolio—this could include photos, videos, drawings, or written notes. The entire award typically takes 25-35 hours to complete, with guidance from a trained Arts Award adviser throughout.
When your child completes Explore, they'll receive an official Arts Award certificate recognized nationwide. Beyond the certificate, they'll gain newfound confidence in their creative abilities, discover art forms they love, and develop valuable skills like communication and critical thinking. Many children find that Explore ignites a lasting passion for the arts that they carry forward into future creative adventures.
The Explore level typically takes between 25-35 hours to complete. This time includes all activities, portfolio creation, and reflection. The award can be spread over weeks or months to fit comfortably with your child's schedule and other commitments.
The Explore level sparks creativity and builds confidence in young people. Your child will discover new art forms, meet creative professionals, and gain a nationally recognized qualification. They'll develop valuable life skills including communication, research, and self-expression while having fun exploring their interests. Explore provides a perfect foundation for creative growth—whether your child is already arts-focused or just beginning to discover their creative potential.
You can support your child by encouraging their creative interests and helping them access diverse arts experiences. Attend performances or exhibitions together, discuss what they're learning, and help them gather materials for their portfolio if needed. Most importantly, show enthusiasm for their discoveries and creations. The award is designed to be child-led, so allow them to follow their curiosity while providing gentle guidance. Your Arts Award adviser will offer specific suggestions tailored to your child's journey.
Your child will work on their Explore level primarily through our dance organization. While we'll introduce the award and provide guidance during classes, most of the portfolio work will happen at home. Our ballet and dance instructors will suggest arts experiences, recommend performances to attend, and help your child connect their dancing to the wider arts world. We provide regular check-ins during term time to monitor progress and answer questions. The flexible nature of Explore means your child can complete activities at their own pace between lessons, with our staff available to support their journey.
The cost of the Explore level is £47.50. This charge covers everything, including the digital booklet, a full-colour printed version delivered to you, registration, moderation and admin costs, and a printed certificate for your child, delivered either via your child's teacher or via mail.
No special skills are needed to start the Explore level. Your child simply needs curiosity and enthusiasm for trying creative activities. The award is designed to be accessible for all children, regardless of previous arts experience. Whether your child is already taking dance classes with us or is completely new to artistic activities, Explore provides a welcoming entry point. The focus is on discovery and enjoyment rather than mastery, making it perfect for children of all abilities and confidence levels.
The Explore level strikes a perfect balance between independence and support. While your child will make their own creative choices and reflections, they won't be doing everything alone. Our dance instructors will guide the overall process, providing structure and feedback. Parents often help with practical aspects like arranging visits to performances or documenting activities. The amount of independence can be adjusted based on your child's age and confidence. Many families find Explore becomes a rewarding journey they can share together, while still celebrating your child's personal artistic development.