Now in its fourth year, the Arts Award & Work Experience Project is a two-week placement designed for young people who face barriers to accessing arts and culture. The programme offers valuable experience within the cultural sector, helping participants build confidence, develop skills, and envision potential career paths in the arts. 

In July, the RWA welcomed eight young people, each from different educational backgrounds, to take part in the 2025 cohort. During the placement, they explored a wide range of roles within the gallery, including curating exhibitions, reviewing public art, budgeting, and gaining practical skills in marketing, event planning, engagement, participation and visitor experience. 

“The process of application and particularly the interview were a really important experience. We have noticed an increase in M’s independence going to and from work each day, learning the process of starting a new role and the nervous unfamiliarity that has to be worked through with new people.” Parents of student in Cohort 2025 

As part of the programme, the group also took part in an offsite intergenerational arts session, where they delivered a creative workshop for older adults living with dementia – offering a meaningful opportunity to use art to connect across generations. 

For their final project, the cohort collaborated to curate their own exhibition using paintings from the RWA's permanent Collection. With support from RWA staff, they developed the concept, selected works, wrote interpretive text (including an introduction panel and labels), and planned and hosted a public opening event. 

This project is designed to make art galleries feel welcoming and accessible – places where young people can see themselves reflected and included. It aims to demonstrate that the cultural sector is not only for them but can be shaped by them.