In October 2023, Kala Sangam hosted our School’s Takeover week for a third year running.

Our School’s Takeover week consisted of 7 days’ worth of arts activity within our building. We engaged over 820 children and young people majority who are from the BD3 area of Bradford, where there is little to no cultural engagement. Across the week, we delivered 28 workshops for a total of 12 primary schools.

This included a Classical Indian singing workshop delivered by Satnam Galsian, a Bhangra dance workshop led by Punjabi Roots Academy as well as other local Bradford artists such as Tranquil Productions, Zareena Bano, Ruth Fettis and Wilko Wilkes. 

Our school’s takeover week is focused on new experiences whether that be a new activity, coming to Kala Sangam for the first time or meeting someone new from a different school. We wanted to create a lasting memory for the children and young people involved. Highlighted below is a video showcasing this fantastic week full of creativity, culture, and learning.

Here are a few more comments from the teacher’s who attended the takeover week :-

“Both workshops were very fun and engaging and gave the children a chance to express themselves”. – Teacher, Thornbury Primary Leadership Academy.

“The children really interacted well, and it was something different for the children. The children were able to learn new skills.” – Teacher, Bryon Primary School.

“The Bhangra Teacher was at the children’s level. He explained the history behind Bhangra. Visual Arts was just at the children’s level. The teacher was very kind and helped give children new ideas. Lots of lovely resources.” – Teacher, Dixons Marchbank Primary

Overall, it was successful third year of our School’s Takeover held at Kala Sangam.  The School’s Takeover will return in October 2024. If you are interested in being involved in 2024, please contact our Education and Outreach Officer Fay at fay@kalasangam.org.