Staff Spotlight: Sam Schrijver

Meet our Ageing Creatively Project Assistant, Sam, in our latest Staff Spotlight.

We chatted to Sam Schrijver, our Ageing Creatively Project Assistant to find out a bit more about her role and any advice she may have for someone wanting to work in the arts. Here's what Sam had to say:

What does a typical day at work look like for you? 

A typical day sees me assisting in the organising and facilitation of projects aimed for the over 55's. From our Ageing Creatively Cinema Club to World Crafts sessions, Tai Chi, Latin in Line and much more, the Corn Exchange's Ageing Creatively programme offers so many different sessions for this age group, it means everyday is different for me.

What do you enjoy most about your job? 

I love being involved in projects that make a difference to our local community.

What is your favourite session to facilitate and why?  

Of all the wonderful projects Ageing Creatively run, I think the once a month Memory Café has to be my favourite. Its just lovely to see the participants and carers living with dementia react to the visiting singers and musicians.

Why do you think the Ageing Creatively programme is so important?  

Evidence shows being actively involved in groups and social interactions as we age is hugely beneficial. The sessions that we run as part of the Ageing Creatively programme provide local people over the age of 55 the opportunity to be involved in a range of engaging activities when they may not have previously been able to. 

What advice would you give someone who wants to work in the arts?  

The arts attract and welcomes openness, inclusivity and diversity. It allows you to be who you are. It makes for a fun working environment.

If you're interested in a career in the arts take a look at our Careers in the Arts programme which is in conjunction with the Watermill Theatre and funded by Greenham Trust. You can find out more about Careers in the Arts here.