There is plenty of academic evidence to show why the arts are important in educating young minds, starting students on a life-long journey that will lead them to contribute to the world around them.

The research shows that arts education can enhance skills to support learning outcomes in all areas of the curriculum and help develop social competencies through self-expression and team building.

Or, as a Secretary of Education from the United States of America puts it: ‘the arts teach young people how to learn by giving them the first step: the desire to learn.’1 We have all encouraged infants with their first efforts to draw and then watched how they have rapidly improved, without knowing what academic, professional or business achievements might eventuate.

There is good news for student artists showing their work in this year’s exhibition. The Review of the Australia Council2, published last May, said:

We congratulate the students and applaud their teachers and schools. We welcome the opportunity to encourage the young artists to achieve their aspirations. In the meantime, we can all enjoy and admire their creativity.

You can view the Annual Student Art Exhibition 2012 here.