Liverpool Hope University has produced an independent Impact Report on the first four years of Art Bytes, demonstrating the success and reach of the programme.

As well as analysing data, researchers spent several months in 2025 interviewing teachers who have taken part, asking them about all aspects of the process, to discover the impact that Art Bytes has on:

1 – How participating schools teach art and value creativity

2 – Student cultural capital, confidence and aspiration

3 – Reaching new audiences, building relationships and widening access

4 – How schools are using Art-Bytes to enhance their provision

“Participation in Art Bytes builds confidence, encourages new artists to flourish and raises aspirations for future creative pathways. It allows every child to feel valued as an artist, not just those who already excel in traditional academic subjects”

Liverpool Hope University Researcher

From the interviews, a number of themes in their answers become clear:

* The prize giving ceremonies were seen as celebrations offering recognition and acting as a catalyst for wider participation.

* Students gained confidence, were encouraged as artists and raised their aspirations.

* Teachers gained awareness and confidence and felt it raised the profile of art teaching.

* Senior leaders felt it raised the profile and value of arts in school life.

* SEND students value art as a leveller, allowing them to compete with students in any other school.

* The programme offered students new opportunities and authentic experiences which enriched their lives.

* Families feel a collective pride in the pupils’ achievements, which strengthens school-community relationships.

As the programme embeds itself in the school culture it ensures a long-term impact.

Read the full report here.