Following its recent launch, Arts Council England has announced its ambitions for the arts over the next three years. In making the announcement, Chairman Gerry Robinson said that an overriding ambition was to place the arts at the heart of national life. Robinson indicated that this could be achieved through substantial increases in funding for individuals, arts organisations, cultural diversity and young people. For the three years from 2003 to 2006, Arts Council England has earmarked £25 million for individual artists through open application programs. This marks an increase of £20.5 million from the funding granted to individuals in 2002-2003. Arts organisations across England are also expected to benefit from funding increases to around £300 million in 2005-06. In addition, the council has announced plans to double its Creative Partnerships program, so as to give school children throughout England opportunities to develop their creativity. By 2005-2006, the organisation expects to have established 32 creative partnerships across England. The council also plans to invest in culturally diverse arts and to take action to change the governance of arts organisations, so as to greater reflect the diversity of society in England. For more information about Arts Council England, CLICK HERE.