Dozens of sixth-form college students have submitted photographs of their life in lockdown – from their attempts to establish a routine to the emotional impact of isolation and illness.

Over 140 students from 46 colleges submitted their pictures to the online exhibition, entitled At Home, which will run from today until 19 June. It is being coordinated by the Sixth Form Colleges Association.

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'Thinking about the world'

Bill Watkin, SFCA chief executive, said the pictured highlighted “the extraordinary artistic talent that exists in our sector”. “We are holding this exhibition to recognise and celebrate excellence in sixth form colleges, but also to stimulate our thinking about the world this summer.”

“It is imperative that we keep the arts in education secure and flourishing. If young people are to make a valuable contribution to society -  even if they are to be successful scientists, engineers, doctors and technicians - they need to develop their creative skills, their artistic sensitivities and their ability to interact with others. All of this will be more important than ever in the post-Covid world”.

Launching the exhibition, apprenticeships and skills minister Gillian Keegan, said: “This has been a difficult time for the entire country but this exhibition is a wonderful example of how creativity can flourish in the face of adversity. It’s great to see how these sixth-form students have captured the experiences of lockdown from a young person’s perspective. A huge congratulations to all exhibitors and I wish them every success for the future”.