TPPS Art on a Postcard

This year’s Trinity Partner Primary School (TPPS) ‘Art on a Postcard’ competition invited young artists from our partner primary schools across South London to explore the theme of ‘Community’ on postcards. They could interpret the theme in any way they liked, and use any medium.

We were delighted that 14 of our 17 partner primary schools entered this year’s competition, with more than 200 pupils submitting postcards. Now in its second year, the competition has more than doubled in scale, a testament to both its creative appeal and the meaningful connections we have with our partner schools. 

Mr Robertson, Director of Art, spearheaded the initiative and explains the importance of a theme pupils can connect with. “When you set a theme, it gives pupils a place to begin; without that, they can feel a bit stuck. But with something like ‘community’, their imagination starts to take over and they run with it in all sorts of directions.” 

And they certainly did! From maps of imaginary neighbourhoods and depictions of community sports teams, to personal takes on diversity, inclusion, kindness and belonging – each postcard told its own story. There was even one about railway nationalisation. “There were some really clever ideas this year,” says Mr Robertson. “The pupils clearly spent time reflecting on what community means to them. That’s what I love – the range of interpretations, the unexpected angles.” 

Seven standout postcards from each school were selected by Mr Robertson to create a miniature exhibition of big ideas in our Shaw Gallery, showcasing their work alongside our GCSE, A Level and Open Art Award exhibitions at the end of the summer term. The young artists and their families were invited to a private viewing to see their work presented in a professional setting (with Trinity’s famous cookies on offer) – which was a moment of real joy and excitement for everyone. “Exhibiting their work in a gallery space adds something special,” Mr Robertson says. “It gives their work value, and seeing it celebrated like that can be a huge confidence boost.” The youngest artist with work on display was just six years old – and she was very excited to spot her postcard on the gallery wall.

In addition, one overall winner from each primary school was chosen to receive a prize pack of art materials, including sketchbooks, watercolours and drawing guides to set them up for the summer holidays. 

Miss Forrest, Art teacher from Pickhurst Academy, said, “They all found such lovely ways to respond to the theme – they were really proud of themselves. It was great seeing how open the topic was and how creatively they each approached it.” 

“I really like trains and I know a lot about them. That’s why I made my postcard about railway nationalisation.” – Samuel, St John’s School 

“I drew Croydon Town Centre because it’s where I live and it feels like part of me. I used coloured pencils and watercolours – I like trying lots of things!” – Leanne, Howard Primary 

“I drew day and night around the Earth, with things that show community like tea and fish and chips. I used Posca pens – they’re my favourite!” – Neha, Woodfield Primary 

“I drew hands and buildings to show our community. I didn’t think it would win, but it did mean something, so maybe that’s why!” – Honya, Monks Orchard 

“I drew ballet shoes because dance is a big part of my community. I love my dance school – it’s fun and full of lovely people.” – Ruby, Balgowan Primary 

“I drew two hands holding the world with tiny people in rainbow colours. My mum helped with ideas and I liked thinking about the whole world as a community.” – Vanessa, Pickhurst Primary 

With a huge thanks to every school who entered and everyone who came to the private viewing. We look forward to seeing more creations next year.

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What is the TPPS?

The Trinity Partner Primary Schools programme supports 17 local primaries across South London with creative, hands-on activities that raise aspiration and build confidence. It’s all about long-term partnerships, not one-off visits – giving pupils meaningful experiences and Trinity students the chance to lead and give back.