To the cookie settings To the main content To the footer

What we do

We make exceptional arts and cultural education possible by nurturing the diverse and skilled workforce that is essential to delivering it.

Our team brings together an eclectic mix of expertise from across education, the arts, research, policy and the creative industries. From teachers and artists who teach, to cultural leaders and specialists in strategic partnerships, inclusion and workforce development, we're united by a shared belief that creativity changes lives. Together, we mobilise ideas, forge meaningful partnerships and create lasting impact in communities across the country.

Through our professional development programmes, school partnerships and pioneering initiatives, we equip teachers and artists who teach with the knowledge, confidence and networks they need to deliver an arts-rich education to inspire the next generation.

Working alongside education leaders, schools, artists, cultural organisations and policymakers at both local and national level, we strengthen the systems that underpin arts education by connecting people, influencing policy and building partnerships.  

By connecting classrooms, community and youth settings with the wider cultural sector, we help to ensure that more children and young people can experience high quality creative learning, wherever and whoever they are.  

Find out more about our work

The National Arts and Cultural Education Awards 2026

The National Arts and Cultural Education Awards shine a light on best practice and innovation in the field of creative and cultural learning, wherever it is happening across the country.

Programmes

We co-design learning programmes that connect schools, cultural organisations and neighbourhoods — forging powerful partnerships and sparking lasting change. Through bold creative experiences, young people grow their skills, confidence and artistry alongside brilliant teaching artists.

Courses and training

Our professional learning offer develops curious, courageous leaders and teachers who drive and challenge excellence and equity in arts education and cultural learning. Each course builds the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to create meaningful change - in classrooms, communities and across the system.

School improvement

We work with schools and multi-academy trusts to drive arts-led improvement. Our evidence-informed approach puts powerful arts practice at the heart of the curriculum - lifting attainment, supporting wellbeing and improving attendance. The result? Joyful, creative learning communities where pupils flourish.

Careers and skills

We build creative futures by illuminating pathways into cultural and creative work. Working across education, industry and the arts, we help schools meet Gatsby Benchmarks and support young people to develop the skills, knowledge and networks they need to step into fulfilling creative careers.

Consultancy

Our consultancy helps education and cultural partners understand their impact, amplify their strengths and shape stories that resonate. Whether you're developing strategy, evaluating practice or strengthening partnerships, we offer insight that turns reflection into action.

ITAC England

Curious Minds hosts the International Teaching Artist Collaborative (ITAC) England Hub, connecting England’s Teaching Artists with the world.

Chance to See Fund

The Chance to See Fund is a unique partnership between Curious Minds and The Lathums, created to tackle financial barriers that limit access to culture. Rooted in Wigan and driven by a belief in fairness, the fund gives children and young people the chance to take part in powerful creative experiences they might otherwise miss - sparking joy, building confidence and opening the door to future opportunities.

Local Cultural Education Partnerships LCEPs

These partnerships bring together a diverse range of stakeholders, including cultural organisations, educational institutions, local authorities and community groups. Their active collaboration is key to to creating a more cohesive, accessible and relevant local offer for the children and young people.

Put me on the waiting list

Wish list

Added:

To wishlist