Accessible Arts / arts + disability NSW

People with disabilities comprise approximately 20% of the Australian population (3.6 million) and therefore comprise a significant group in their own right.  For such a large group of people it is often the case that they are not able to attend an arts venue an event due to lack of information, access or service.  This can mean not only excluding 3.6 million people, but also their carers, friends and family from the arts. In addition to outlining the legal obligation to ensure equal access to all goods, services and venues (Disability Discrimination Act 1992), the Disability Awareness and Access Training provided by Accessible Arts increases awareness of the barriers for people with disabilities in accessing the arts and provides strategies to overcome them.

Accessible Arts is offering their first, of only two workshops, for 2009. The half-day TAFE accredited module, is designed for individuals working in the arts and arts organisations. It is a must for good practice and ensuring an enjoyable arts experience for all. A number of scenarios will be addressed such as:

• What do you do if someone arrives at your venue / event with a guide dog?
• A man in a wheelchair has called to check whether your venue/event is suitably accessible – What information should you give him?
• A group of students who are deaf and hearing impaired are visiting you venue/attending your event – Is there any preparation required?

As a result of attending the course staff will feel a greater level of confidence when dealing with access issues for people with disabilities. Accessible Arts has provided training for the National Portrait Gallery, Canberra, Sydney Theatre Company, Sydney Opera House, Sydney Film Festival, Biennale of Sydney, Museums and Galleries Foundation, Art Gallery of New South Wales, Historic Houses Trust, and Museum of Contemporary Art.

This is what some of the participants said about the course:

“I can’t believe I haven’t done this training before. All staff should have it. It was great to have Cliff come and speak about audio described performances”

“The session was well paced between meeting outcomes & allowing discussion and variety.  The personal touch of using a guest speaker was welcome”

“It was a very worthwhile session reinforcing & challenging.  Many thanks Jane for a professional & enjoyable session”

“The guest speaker from Vision Australia added immediacy and power to the experience”

“I have done this training before but thoroughly enjoyed it and was good to revisit the material again and reinforce the importance of this subject matter.”

The training module developed by TAFE NSW in association with Accessible Arts provides all participants with a TAFE transcript on completion of the training.

When: Tuesday 24th March 2009 - 1-5pm

Where: Accessible Arts Training Room
Pier 4, The Wharf Hickson Road, WALSH BAY

Cost: $110 (no GST charged) includes guest speaker with a disability, handbook and afternoon tea.

REGISTRATIONS CLOSE: 10th March 2009

Download registration form or contact Jane Pollard, Training Manager on 02 9251 6499 (ext 3) or email training.manager@aarts.net.au.

Customised Training

Accessible Arts also offers a customised Disability Awareness & Access Training service that can be delivered onsite in your organisation.  We are available to travel to regional and rural areas in New South Wales.

About Accessible Arts Trainer

Jane Pollard is an educationalist with 20 years experience ranging from classroom teaching on a small Aboriginal Community in the Northern Territory through to overseeing the delivery of adult education programs for a number of community based Registered Training Organisations. Jane is also a practicing jeweller with a well-established studio/showroom in Enmore. She exhibits regularly and sells nationally through gallery stores. Jane is committed to pursuing a career that promotes the principles of social justice and one that nurtures her interest in the art.

Download Media Release Building your audience – People in the Arts TAFE Accredited Disability Awareness & Access Training