Turning blue into brilliant: Crooksbarn Primary pupils excel through art
30/01/26
At Schools North East, we see every day how schools across our region are finding creative, meaningful ways to support children’s wellbeing — especially at a time when mental health is a growing concern for pupils and staff alike.
This inspiring art project from Crooksbarn Primary School in Norton is a powerful example of how partnerships with local communities can help children feel seen, valued and confident.
Using art as a means to communicate emotions
Pupils teamed up with local artist Chris Layfield during the day-long event, which took place on ‘Blue Monday’ — the third Monday in January — which is thought to be the most challenging day of the year and is used annually to raise mental health awareness.
Jane Whittaker, a class teacher and Art & Design Lead at Crooksbarn Primary School, said: “We place great emphasis in school on promoting well-being and helping our children to develop a positive self-image.
“Every year we acknowledge ‘Blue Monday’ and this year we invited local artist Chris Layfield to work with a group of children. They created a self-portrait that celebrates their individuality and diverse achievements, using art as a means to communicate emotions that are sometimes difficult to put into words.”
A big emphasis on FUN!
Chris Layfield runs Middlesbrough-based Open Door Art who predominantly work with schools, hospitals and local communities.
Chris said: “Events like this enable children to express their feelings through the process of art and support their mental well-being and we place a big emphasis on fun.”
Crooksbarn is one of ten primary schools across Teesside, County Durham and Hartlepool under the umbrella of Ad Astra Academy Trust.
Helen Durnion, School Improvement Lead for Ad Astra, commented: “Throughout the Trust, we work hard to ensure that mental health is a top priority for our children and staff.
“The initiative enabled children to explore through art how they want to be perceived by others, and the quality of their work was outstanding.”
Chris Zarraga, Director of Schools North East, said: “This is a wonderful example of how schools in our region are putting children’s wellbeing at the heart of what they do. Projects like this show the power of creativity to help young people express themselves, build confidence and feel connected to their community. It’s exactly the kind of work that makes a lasting difference to children’s lives.”
Ad Astra Academy Trust is a Schools North East Partner Trust. If you’d like to find out more about our Partner School membership, click here.
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