THREE Isle of Wight schools have netted the prestigious Artsmark award for their efforts in teaching arts activities to young people.
Newchurch Primary School, Lanesend Primary School, Cowes, and Barton Primary School are among 259 schools in the south east to have received the accolade for encouraging pupils to reach their potential through the arts.
Artsmark is a national programme that enables schools, further education colleges and youth justice institutions to celebrate, strengthen and evaluate the arts activities they provide.
The emphasis on quality arts provision has been developed to support Arts Council England in achieving its ten-year goal of ensuring every child and young person has the opportunity to experience the richness of the arts.
Sally Abbott, regional director of Arts Council England, south east, said: "We know children and young people who have the opportunity to experience the arts, in some way, are more likely to fulfil their potential throughout their lives."