Evaluation of the Integration program, ‘Creative Play’, at the New England Regional Art Museum (NERAM)

This project is a collaboration between the New England Regional Art Museum (NERAM) and Somayeh Ba Akhlagh, a lecturer from the University of New England in Armidale. It focuses on a short integration program, which invites families with young children to participate in weekly creative play opportunities NSW school terms. The program, called “Family Hour at NERAM” benefits those families who wish to engage creatively with their young children whilst enjoying a social occasion at NERAM. It offers opportunities for networking and developing lifelong friendships for both children and parents/carers. Armidale is home to 650 Ezidi refugee families and members of this community will be encouraged to join the Family Hours program. The program will provide language support with the aim of developing Ezidi children’s inclusion, participation, and hence well-being. Access to an Ezidi interpreter will (i) facilitate participation within a supportive environment, (ii) promote and supports the social inclusion of Ezidi families and their children in Armidale. In addition, it advances all forms of mutual tolerance and respect between local and Ezidi communities in Armidale.

Watch a presentation of the findings of this research here.