We sat down with Nicky Hodge, who has been leading the Art and Photography Department at St Lawrence College for almost six years. Nicky reflects on her time at the school, the department’s achievements, and its unique position in the creative landscape.
On Becoming Head of Department
“I’m Nicky Hodge, and I’ve had the privilege of heading the Art and Photography Department at St Lawrence College for almost six years now. As I reflect on this time, it’s almost my sixth Christmas here.”
Nicky’s journey led her from a grammar school in Canterbury to St Lawrence College, where she found an art department ready for transformation. “The opportunity to create something new, including a fantastic photography section, has been a privilege.”
Her photography team is robust, and Nicky is especially proud of Jane Smith, the dedicated Photography Teacher, who leads the way in delivering exceptional lessons, including A-level courses that have yielded outstanding results.
The Importance of Pastoral Care
“What sets St Lawrence College apart is not just our academic excellence, but also our outstanding pastoral care. It’s palpable from the moment you step onto the grounds. This is a unique and supportive community that values the overall well-being and growth of each student. This ethos has made my experience here truly fulfilling.”
The Local Art Scene and Its Contribution to Education
Kent, particularly Margate and Ramsgate, boasts a thriving art scene. How does the local environment contribute to the educational experience at St Lawrence College, especially in the context of arts education?
“Upon my arrival, there was a notable connection to Turner Contemporary, which included a thriving partnership and the invaluable opportunity to showcase our students’ work there. Over the years, I’ve seen a significant influx from London to this region, particularly in the creative industries. Icons like Tracey Emin have established art colleges, and Carl Friedman has set up galleries and printing facilities in Margate. This growing creative community has brought a new energy to our school.”
“We’ve welcomed many artistically inclined students from these backgrounds, adding an exciting dynamic to our community. Through our strong family links, we’ve hosted workshops and masterclasses conducted by renowned photographers. It’s an incredibly vibrant and inspiring scene, and we actively seek to contribute and engage with it.”
Why Families Choose St Lawrence College
Can you elaborate on why families choose to relocate to the Kent area and enrol their children at St Lawrence College?
“Transitioning to this area with my own family, I’ve come to appreciate the slower pace of life. We make time for the things that truly matter. The daily drive to work offers a serene experience, especially watching the sunrise. The beauty of the landscapes that inspired Turner’s paintings, with their captivating light and skies, continues to fascinate me.”
“The area has evolved into a cultural hub for artists and creative communities, full of activities. For easy access, the train station is just a five-minute walk away. Recently, we caught a train to London to see the incredible show Women in Revolt.”
“I also find the architecture charming, with its elegant Victorian-style houses, and the option to go on long walks along the beach adds to the area’s appeal. The slower pace allows ample time for family care and pursuing activities that contribute to a fulfilling lifestyle.”
Academic Achievements in Art and Photography
“It’s impressive that so many students who took A-level Art or Photography in 2023 achieved such high grades. Could you share more about the performance of the department, and how the school plans to maintain or surpass such high standards?”
“Academically, our recent A-level cohort achieved remarkable success, with 75% of students earning A*. These students had been with us throughout their educational journey, from GCSE through Key Stage 3. Our curriculum is thoughtfully designed to build foundational skills, ensuring that by the time students reach A-level, they are not just confident but deeply passionate and ambitious about their art.”
“Our photography department has undergone remarkable transformation under the leadership of Jane Smith, and this environment enables us to nurture and support students in their creative pursuits. Vitality and genuine investment in their work is key to achieving high grades.”
In photography, we are thrilled to report a 75% A* rate—a testament to the dedication and enthusiasm of our students. Equally noteworthy is our consistent success in A-level Art, with a 100% A to B rate* for five consecutive years.
“What makes our achievements even more special is our commitment to inclusivity. We do not select students based on ability but believe in unlocking the potential of every student. This philosophy extends to GCSE, where we consistently maintain two vibrant classes due to the subject’s popularity.”
The Facilities and Learning Environment
The school boasts amazing facilities. How do these facilities enhance the learning experience in the art and photography department?
“Our spacious classrooms are flooded with natural light, thanks to large double doors leading out to balconies. The calming, relaxed atmosphere plays a pivotal role in inspiring our students. Parents often comment on the serene environment during their tours. When visitors step into our department, the reaction is always ‘wow’.”
“We’ve strategically designed the department to evoke that sense of awe, with a dedicated gallery space that showcases the best A-level work, inspiring creativity and raising aspirations.”
What Sets the Department Apart
What specific areas does the art and photography department excel in? Are there unique aspects or teaching methodologies that set this department apart?
“We offer a remarkable array of skills, techniques, and processes that set us apart. The individuality of the department makes a significant impact on our students. We aim to tailor the experience to their interests, allowing them to take ownership of their work. The relatively small class sizes and individual attention ensure that our students enjoy success in the subject.”
“I can genuinely say I’ve never experienced such a breathtaking art department. The space is truly stunning, and that makes a world of difference. With dedicated areas like our screen printing setup, fully equipped photography room, darkroom, and even a sizable kiln, we provide students with the tools to explore their creativity.”
Supporting International Students
How does the school leverage the appeal of creative arts to attract international students, both boarding and day students?
“The diversity among our students—coming from various backgrounds with unique strengths—is one of the department’s standout features. We tailor our courses to meet the needs of each individual. For those new to the school, we introduce a foundation project in the first term to build skills and confidence.”
Celebrating Student Achievements
Apart from A-level results, are there any other notable successes or achievements of students within the art and photography department?
“We celebrated remarkable success with our students participating in the Margate Portfolio Competition, with several selected and exhibited. One of our students also clinched victory in a Rotary competition at the local level, progressing well beyond regional finals. Another standout moment was when one of our students entered Britain’s Best Young Artist and made it to the final 21 contestants, even appearing on TV.”
Post-Graduation Pathways
Where do students from the art and photography department typically go after graduation?
“We expose students to numerous career possibilities and encourage them to recognise the value of creativity. Creative thinking is highly sought after in today’s business landscape, and it opens doors to careers in fields such as music, television, film, graphic design, and advertising.”
Outreach and Community Engagement
Could you share insights into the outreach work the school engages in, especially related to the art and photography department?
“We’re part of the East Kent Schools Partnership (EKST), collaborating with local schools and artists for substantial projects. Our students have also participated in workshops with facilities like our darkroom and photography studio, benefiting students from other schools.”
Interested in seeing the department’s work for yourself? We invite prospective students and parents to visit our Art and Photography Department, where you can explore student artwork, view our facilities, and meet our dedicated team. Visit our website for upcoming events and exhibitions!
