Children spent their Easter holidays adding a splash of colour outside Pine Cones Family Hub, with the help of Bedford Creative Arts.
A pair of sheds, on the grounds outside Pine Cones, have had colourful murals added to their walls. The designs were created with the input of youngsters from both Pine Cones and the neighbouring Livingstone Primary School, as well as the artist taking inspiration from their surroundings.
Artist Emma Barnie said; “We did workshops at Pine Cones and Livingstone, talking to families and Year 5 children about what was important to them. They came up with the themes of fun, play, togetherness, trips out, protectiveness, support, and safety.
“We then came up with two different but complimentary designs.”
One of the designs shows an enchanted forest, while the other has pinecones which represent protection and are underneath the pinetrees outside the school and Family Hub.
Anne Harnan, Projects Manager for Bedford Creative Arts, added; “We had children, their families and carers joining us throughout the week of painting, it’s been a really fun experience. We want to make it as welcoming as possible here, and what could be more welcoming than seeing your own hard work every day you come to the Family Hub?
“You can see how much people appreciate the school, and the positive impact that the Family Hub has on people’s lives. These are safe, welcoming spaces, and art is a great leveller too.”
Family hubs are local support centres for all families, from the moment you are expecting a child until they turn 19 or - if they have special educational needs - until they turn 25. They have activities and support for all ages, including a full timetable for children aged up to five years old.
Bedford Borough Council has two family hub buildings, the Queens Park hub on Marlborough Road, and Pine Cones on Slade Walk. Find out more at https://www.bedford.gov.uk/social-care-and-health/children-and-families/family-hubs