Ignite

Welcome to ignite

Ignite is Create’s dynamic programme of continuing professional development for freelance artists and project managers. This annual programme is delivered free of charge to provide access to expert insights into Create’s core participant groups, alongside peer-learning and creative development opportunities designed to upskill freelancers in their delivery of high-quality creative workshops in challenging settings.

Born from our Artist Sharing initiative launched in 2013, today Ignite brings together Create’s artist and project manager pools of almost 150 freelancers across London and the North West through a diverse programme of panel talks, workshops and training.

EXPLORE THE PROGRAMME

Participants playing a keyboard during a Create music workshop

Meet the Pro

Creative Enrichment for Children in Care – understanding y/our impact with Bernadette Alexander

Monday 12 October 2026 · 3.30pm–5.30pm · Online

Why, despite statutory guidance and funding designed to narrow it, does there remain an unacceptably wide attainment gap for many children looked after? Children’s social care expert Bernadette Alexander has dedicated her career to understanding these barriers to achievement and supporting the personal and academic success of care-experienced young people. Join us for a deep dive into the social care sector, the potential of creative enrichment and the chance to get your questions answered.

Participants taking part in a Create professional development session

Explore

Building Better Connections – Authentic Networking & Active Listening Workshop with Michelle Schechter and Sonja Jutte

Monday 16 November 2026 · 1pm–5.30pm · Hybrid

In today’s interconnected economy, the ability to build genuine, human relationships is not a “nice to have”; it is an essential workplace skill. In these workshops, participants will practise practical, human-centred approaches to connection that counter isolation, break down silos and strengthen relationships. Through reflection, discussion and actionable tools, participants will learn how to turn networking into a skill that supports wellbeing, collaboration and long-term success.

Children playing with sock puppets in a classroom setting

Safeguarding Training

Safeguarding Training with Create DSL, Kristian Sakulku

Monday 23 November 2026 · 9.30am–1.30pm · London

Designed specifically for Create’s context by Board-appointed Safeguarding Trustee Simone Wright and Director of Programmes / Designated Safeguarding Lead Kristian Sakulku.

CONCLUDED FOR 2026/27

Create artists and project staff taking part in professional development

Explore

Creative Care for Vulnerable Adults

Monday 11 May 2026 · London

A dedicated space to gather and share artist-facilitator and project manager practices related to working with adults.

Children playing with sock puppets in a classroom setting.

Safeguarding Training

Safeguarding Training with Create DSL, Kristian Sakulku

Monday 18 May 2026 · London

Designed specifically for Create’s context by Board-appointed Safeguarding Trustee Simone Wright and Director of Programmes / Designated Safeguarding Lead Kristian Sakulku.

Event promotional graphic including speaker information

Create Conversations

Creativity Without Barriers

Tuesday 19 May 2026 · Online

This online panel discussion will look at the role creativity can play in supporting more marginalised groups and individuals, and expanding access to the arts to those who need it most. We’ll explore how the arts can empower people and communities to make positive changes in challenging times, and how creativity can unlock new possibilities. Featuring Dr Simon Opher MP, Dr Tola Dabiri, Nicky Goulder MBE and Jemilea Wisdom-Baako.

91% of artists reported that Create provides a supportive environment for professional development, with 64% saying this was to an exceptional or substantial extent

If you have any questions regarding the above opportunities, please contact jo@createarts.org.uk.