A new study released jointly by Australian Education and Arts ministries, demonstrates that school-based arts programmes play an important role in encouraging students to embrace learning, with particular benefits for Indigenous students. The study - Evaluation of School-based Arts Education Programmes in Australian Schools - was conducted by the Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER) on behalf of the Department of Education, Science and Training, the Department of Communications, Information Technology and the Arts and the Australia Council for the Arts. Comprising a literature review, an evaluation of two drama programmes (Youth Arts with an Edge in Victoria and Arts at Direk in South Australia) and two music programmes (Boys' Business and The Indigenous Music Education Programme in the Northern Territory), research focused on the impact of arts participation for Indigenous, marginalised and disadvantaged students. Results suggested that arts based education activities can improve students' engagement with learning, build self-confidence and develop team-work skills through peer collaboration. Findings also pointed to a boost in student and teacher capacity to risk-take (fuelling initiative and creativity) and enhanced learning opportunities for students who do not fit the conventional mould of institutional learning. ‘I encourage the education community to consider these findings,’ said Australian Minister for Education, Science and Training, Dr Brendan Nelson. ‘The ability of arts programmes to provide positive learning experiences for students who face major learning challenges is a particularly valuable lesson to be embraced.’ ‘The inherent value of education in the arts has never been in question,’ said Australian Minister for the Arts, Senator Helen Coonan. ‘But the potential of the arts to engage students in learning more broadly-particularly those who are not otherwise being reached is an opportunity which demands attention.’ ‘I welcome this study as it will play an important role in enhancing arts education in Australian schools.’ To access the ACER study online, CLICK HERE.