Arts Engagement & Outreach: October 2025 News

Here’s a taste of what our Arts Engagement & Outreach team at The Octagon & Westlands have been busy working on this month… 

Our Arts Engagement & Outreach team develop and deliver programmes and activities that benefit health and wellbeing, enrich learning and education in and outside school, inspire and celebrate talent. Creating work that will support local artists and tell “local stories”. In everything we do and programme we will seek to improve inclusion and remove barriers, whatever they may be, so that everyone is able to enjoy and benefit from the creative arts. Our Arts Engagement & Outreach team look to provide more opportunities for our communities to watch, take part and benefit from arts and cultural activities where they live. 

October has sparked creativity, learning, and togetherness, from championing community events, to providing enriching opportunities for students from across Somerset with workshops delivered by world-class companies Motionhouse and Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra (BSO), alongside illustration workshops for young people led by acclaimed Illustrator, Jill Newton. 

Please read more below… 

Creative Learning & Education 

Inspiring art in schools 

This month saw Motionhouse Dance Company perform their stunning duet, Knot, in four school settings, engaging students of Holyrood Academy, Westfield Academy, St Gildas Primary and Oaklands Primary. The opportunity gave students exposure to a world-class dance company, as featured on the dance syllabus, on their doorstep – in the space where they learn, rehearse and develop their own talent. Following the performances, over 120 students from across all four schools took part in workshops led by Motionhouse’s practitioners, developing skills and practicing contemporary dance techniques, including physical lifts and storytelling through movement.  

This month also saw Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra (BSO) delivering workshops on composition with our partner secondary schools, Stanchester and Huish Episcopi Academy. 30 student musicians composed original material, which will be developed by BSO in preparation for their next workshop later this year. These workshops have been integral to enhancing students’ confidence and skills in relation to GCSE course content. 

"A very positive response from students and the workshop allowed a chance for confidence to grow for those that are less able! "  Head of Music Huish Episcopi

Empowering teachers through collaboration 

Our autumn term Teachers Network Meeting held this month involved seven teachers representing the arts in their schools, who came together to explore solutions to barriers in accessing arts education. This provided useful reflections on how we can further support teachers in our area to ensure the best creative provision for young people in schools. Discussions highlighted the importance of collaboration, resource-sharing, and inclusive approaches to arts engagement. We are grateful to all who contributed their insights and look forward to building on these conversations in future sessions. 

Talent Development 

Tania Azevedo sparks imagination for local artists 

This month, we were delighted to host our Making a Musical workshop, featuring an inspiring online conversation with acclaimed musical theatre Writer and Director, Tania Azevedo. Participants explored the exciting process of beginning to write a musical, gaining insight into the techniques and creative approaches used to develop new musical theatre creations for the stage. The session attracted a wonderfully diverse group of participants, from 14 to 40, all united by their passion for storytelling and creative writing. It was an engaging and thought-provoking workshop that encouraged collaboration, imagination, and the confidence to bring new musical ideas to life. 

“The workshop has really made me think, and inspired me, with techniques I can use alongside my current course.” Participant  

Participation 

Inspiring creativity and career aspirations in young people 

As part of half term activities and inspired by the Yeovil Literary Festival, we hosted an Illustration Masterclass led by South West Illustrator, Jill Newton. Thanks to funding from Somerset Council’s Community Inclusion and Activity Team, the workshop was fully inclusive and open to young people aged 8–18. A total of 12 participants attended, many accompanied by a family member, creating a warm and collaborative atmosphere. The session focused on designing characters and book covers, encouraging creativity and skill development. Jill also shared her career journey, offering valuable insights into creative career pathways, with 80% of attendees saying they felt inspired by the workshop. This workshop provided a unique opportunity for young people to explore illustration in a supportive environment, fostering creativity, building confidence, and helping participants envision future possibilities in the arts. 

“Totally transformed outlook on my ability to draw.”  Participant 

Access & Inclusion Schemes 

Opening doors for all to SHiNE 

We’re delighted to share that 13 individuals are currently benefiting from our SHiNE Bursary Fund. This initiative enables people of all ages to take part in creative workshops at Westlands, especially those who might not otherwise have the opportunity due to financial barriers. 

In October alone, the fund supported over 40 hours of participation, giving individuals the chance to be creative, build connections, and develop new skills. We’ve received heartfelt feedback from participants and their families, highlighting the meaningful impact that engaging in the arts has made. Many bursary recipients also take part in our community shows at Westlands, and it’s a joy to see them have the opportunity and truly shine. 

“The support that The Octagon Theatre & Westlands Entertainment Venue have been able to give my son through attending holiday activities and now weekly classes has made such a difference.” Parent 

To learn more or apply for the SHiNE Bursary Fund, visit: westlandsyeovil.co.uk/discover-more/shine-bursary-fund/  

The SHiNE Bursary Fund is proudly sponsored by Bakers Coaches. 

Artist Support 

Creating a nurturing space for talent to flourish  

This month saw artist, Catherine Rocca leading a series of inspiring workshops in Glastonbury titled, Your Inner Artist. The course, made up of three weekly sessions of three hours each, welcomed participants aged 45 and over, many of whom live with a physical disability, impairment, or chronic health condition. Held at The Avalon Centre in the heart of Glastonbury and run by the Sweet Track Counselling Service, the workshops provided a nurturing space for creativity, self-expression, and connection. The project culminated in a vibrant exhibition titled, What is Art Anyway? at the Heart of the Tribe Gallery. 

“The project is called ‘What is Art Anyway?’ – a question I have asked myself ever since graduating from a Fine Art Foundation course at age 21 with the belief that I could never be a “real artist”.  I’m so excited to begin sharing some of the tools I have learned so far on my journey, and have received £1000 from Somerset Council’s ‘Creative Ideas Fund’ to do so.” Catherine Rocca 

Arts for Health & Wellbeing 

Boosting confidence and connection for new mums through music 

Our Time Together autumn sessions are well underway, bringing sensory and creative music-making to new parents and their babies (aged 0–12 months) in Wincanton. Delivered in partnership with Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra (BSO) and The Balsam Centre, this 8-week initiative supports parents experiencing low mood after childbirth. 10 mums and their babies take part in these uplifting sessions led by professional musicians from BSO, with singing, bonding exercises, and gentle musical play at the heart of each session. The project is designed to nurture wellbeing, reduce isolation, and build confidence through shared musical experiences. Each session ends with time for tea, coffee, and conversation—giving parents a chance to connect, share, and support one another. Every session has been filled with smiles, laughter, and a growing sense of community. 

“This group is just what I needed—uplifting, friendly, and a great way to start the week.” Participant  

Productions & Events  

Celebrating community connections 

This month, we were delighted to participate in the Westfield Celebration Event, engaging with over 40 members of our local community. Our team hosted hands-on arts and crafts sessions, inviting young people and families to create delicate paper roses inspired by our forthcoming Beauty and the Beast pantomime at Westlands Entertainment Venue. In addition to the creative fun, we shared details about our weekly classes, inclusive initiatives, and upcoming shows. The event offered a meaningful chance to connect with residents and community groups, strengthening relationships and celebrating the energy and warmth that make our local area special.  

“The schemes you offer are amazing for the community” – Community Member 

To keep up to date with all the activities coming up head over to the What’s On section on our website or check out our Participate page which will link you to all our projects and upcoming opportunities.