ABOUT BATTSWOOD
A Legacy of Creativity and Opportunity
OUR STORY
More Than Four Decades of Creative Education
Battswood Arts Centre has a history deeply connected to the development of arts education in Cape Town. The Centre originated at Hewat Art Centre before becoming Battswood Arts Centre in 1983 in Wynberg, under the leadership of the late Mr John Ross.
In 1994, the Centre relocated to Grassy Park with a vision of making the arts accessible to a wider community. Over the years, Battswood has worked with numerous schools and communities, creating meaningful opportunities for young people to experience and participate in the arts.
OUR PURPOSE
Arts for All
Inclusive. Innovative. Empowering.
To establish BAC as a premier inclusive and innovative arts hub that fosters artistic excellence and community empowerment through integrated creative arts education and partnerships.
Developing Creativity for Life
Develop students’ creative and critical thinking skills through the arts, while strengthening communication and collaboration within a safe and nurturing environment.
Provide opportunities for self-expression and the exploration of personal identity through cultural awareness and appreciation for the arts.
Ensure that all learners have the right to creative education, irrespective of their backgrounds and learning abilities.
Equip learners with the skills and knowledge needed to participate in and embrace the arts throughout their lives.
OUR JOURNEY
From 1983 to Today
Battswood Arts Centre Is Established
Battswood Arts Centre is established in Wynberg, building on the legacy of Hewat Art Centre.
A New Home in Grassy Park
The Centre relocates to Grassy Park, expanding its commitment to accessible arts education.
Growing Our Reach
Battswood continues to expand its outreach and school programmes, working with schools across the Cape Town community.
Expanding Creative Opportunities
Learners participate in a growing range of performances, exhibitions, cultural programmes and educational opportunities.
The Legacy Continues
Battswood Arts Centre continues to develop young artists and performers while preparing a new generation to engage confidently with the creative world.
Creating Opportunities.
Celebrating Excellence.
Over the years, Battswood learners have had opportunities to perform, exhibit and participate in creative and cultural experiences beyond the Centre.
Baxter Theatre
Battswood’s percussion ensemble and learners have performed at the Baxter Theatre, gaining valuable professional performance experience.
Music at Barons
Music learners have participated in performances and cultural programmes at Barons.
Dance at Artscape
Dance learners have performed at Artscape, experiencing the discipline and excitement of a professional theatre environment.
Iziko Museums
Learners have participated in arts-related exhibitions and cultural activities at Iziko.
Zeitz MOCAA
Learners and parents have had opportunities to experience contemporary African art at Zeitz MOCAA.
Top 10 Dance Achievement
Battswood’s dance learners achieved a Top 10 position, reflecting the commitment, discipline and talent developed through the programme.
A Message From the Principal
Welcome to Battswood Arts Centre.
It is my privilege to lead a centre with such a rich history and such an exciting future. For more than 40 years, Battswood has provided young people with opportunities to discover the arts, develop their talents and build confidence in themselves.
Our commitment remains simple: to inspire our learners to reach greater heights. Through Art, Drama, Music and Dance, we strive to create an environment where every learner can explore their potential, discover their unique voice and develop skills that will serve them throughout their lives.
I invite you to explore our website, discover our programmes and learn more about the work we do. Most importantly, I invite you to become part of the Battswood journey.
Explore the Creative Disciplines
Discover how Battswood brings learning to life through Visual Arts & Design, Drama, Music and Dance.
Explore Our Programmes →