Groups of 30 pupils worked with teachers to create an immersive, experiential art exhibition and a performance art experience based on perspectives and how artists change our views.

"We felt there was a range of children that needed an opportunity to express themselves through the arts," said principal Kate Robinson. "The arts are an incredibly healing medium and way for children to be expressive when they might be struggling to articulate how they are feeling."

Each group, which comprised children from all year levels, worked over six sessions to create their masterpieces.

At the end of the program the school's PE zone transformed in to an art zone with tubes and cellophane, boxes and coloured beads, dyed rice and drawings, plasticine and paper, lamps and mirrors with finished artworks hung outside windows and from the ceiling to encourage viewers to take in the artwork from different perspectives.

Some contemplated issues such as climate change, with one student creating a boat covered in broken glass next to a bare tree titled 'Fishing for Hope'.

The performing arts group created their own world and language, taking over the playground to assemble structures, collect water and negotiate tasks without being allowed to talk in English.

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Their improvisations were woven together to create a show Somewhere Along the Line which challenged the audience to understand the story from the context of the surroundings.

Students from all year levels who had not taken part in the arts intensive groups then enjoyed time exploring the exhibition and watching the show.

Ms Robinson said the experience had been so valuable they would look to continue the arts intensive program next term.

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