ARTiculate Project Helping Students Express Emotions Through Creativity

Students at the Beacon of Light School have been exploring the power of art to support their wellbeing and emotional regulation through the ARTiculate project, led by SEND Support and Baseline Lead, Maria McGonagle.

Launched in September 2025, the project uses creative activities to help students build emotional literacy, strengthen connections and express their feelings in a safe and supportive environment. Maria, who holds a First-Class Honours degree in Psychology and is certified in CPD training for ARTiculate for staff in education and social care, has designed the sessions to promote mindfulness, reflection and communication through artistic expression.

As part of the project, students have engaged in a range of creative tasks, including photography, painting and sculpture. For example, one student went for a walk to capture photographs of the things that interest them, later combining these images into a digital collage with a Sunderland theme. Another student chose a painting activity focused on gratitude and happiness, blending five things that bring them joy using brush and water techniques.

In another session, students were invited to design imaginary creatures, first sketching their ideas and then bringing them to life with polymer modelling clay. The hands-on activities have encouraged imagination while supporting self-regulation and focus.

Students have also completed SEMH (Social, Emotional and Mental Health) questionnaires to share feedback, helping Maria adapt and develop the project further to meet their needs.

 “It helps me calm down when I feel frustrated. Doing art makes me feel relaxed and happy.”

– Ruby, Beacon of Light student

Maria has also introduced ‘neuro-doodles’, a creative mindfulness exercise where students use free-flowing lines and colours to express mood and emotion. These sessions have helped students to deregulate and find calm during the school day, reinforcing the value of art as a tool for emotional wellbeing.

“The progress students have made through ARTiculate has been incredible. It’s about creating a positive environment where they can express themselves, connect with others and feel proud of what they’ve created.”

– Maria McGonagle, SEND Support and Baseline Lead