Jessica's Story
The two years I spent at Tallis Post 16 Centre introduced me to a vibrant learning culture which celebrated the importance of creativity.
At a time when the value of perusing an arts or humanities degree is up for debate because of rising tuition fees, institutions that champion the arts are more important than ever before. I studied History of Art and Literature at university and found the course very broad and enriching. I would not have been able to graduate with a 1:1 if I had chosen a subject that I found uninspiring. I went on to secure a scholarship to study a Masters at UCL before finding my current role in Development at the Victoria and Albert Museum. Funding cuts are having many negative impacts on museums and galleries. A harmful side effect of the cuts is the increasing need to intern unpaid or volunteer in order to break into the sector. This acts as a barrier to access for many young people. |
I strongly believe that cultural institutions need people from a diverse range of backgrounds to thrive. If you are considering a job in the arts or media but can't afford to offer your skills for free, don’t be discouraged, take a look at charities like Arts Emergency that are working hard to open up these career paths.
Alternatively, talk to your teachers at Tallis who will offer you the same support and guidance that they offered me. Their commitment to giving students the confidence to aim high coupled with a school ethos that nurtures individual talent is a recipe for success and makes Tallis a very special place.
Alternatively, talk to your teachers at Tallis who will offer you the same support and guidance that they offered me. Their commitment to giving students the confidence to aim high coupled with a school ethos that nurtures individual talent is a recipe for success and makes Tallis a very special place.
Visit Jessica's website
Jessica's work also features on the Sky Arts Portrait Artist of the Year series.
Jessica's work also features on the Sky Arts Portrait Artist of the Year series.