Craig Foord

Craig joined Northease Manor in September 1998. Craig had a history of non-attendance at school but upon joining Northease this improved largely due to the new found friendships with students who were having similar experiences. Although initially he struggled with literacy and numeracy, with the guidance and support of experienced professionals his confidence grew and his work benefited as a result.

imageCraig enjoyed practical lessons and it was clear to his art teachers that he had a desire to create and possessed a hunger for developing new skills and techniques. By the end of Year 10 Craig was producing artwork at a ferocious rate. He spent every spare moment in the art room - sometimes to the dismay of his other teachers!

Just prior to Craig’s final exams he had to undergo surgery and was absent for eight weeks. His art teacher tutored him at home and he continued to work despite obvious discomfort. Craig actually based his final piece around his operation; the exam theme was aptly titled “Inside”.

Craig’s talent and commitment were rewarded with an A* at GCSE. He actually achieved full marks on every assessment criterion. His final exhibition was outstanding and gave a great deal of pleasure to all those who saw it - especially the moderator!

Craig applied to follow an Advanced Diploma in Art and Design at Sussex Downs College, a two-year course equivalent to three A-levels. However, his other GCSE results meant that he did not meet the entry requirements for the course.

The college advised him to follow the Intermediate course for a year and then apply again. His art teacher was extremely concerned that Craig needed greater challenges than this course could provide and appealed for him to be given a place on the higher level course for a trial period - after all, he had impressed with his portfolio, sketch books and ability to discuss his work in an interview. After a flurry of phone calls and visits the college finally accepted Craig on this basis, much to the relief of Craig, his family and his art teachers.

Craig has now completed his Advanced Diploma and is heading towards a Distinction. He is planning to do a degree in Ceramics at Loughborough University.

Craig Sadler

Heather Reid

Hannah Swan

Hannah Fletcher