Making, presenting and responding

Well Kirsten, I think any school can have an Arts focus, regardless of socio-economic status.  My students are very experienced, yes, because art has been a big part of their entire school lives.  

I think scaffolding is the key.  I would suggest you introduce art projects which are simple and can be completed in one lesson to give your students confidence in themselves.  You can gradually build up their skill and understanding.  Make sure you make it fun and that they can proudly display their completed work - making, presenting and responding (Sinclair, Jeanneret, O'Toole, 2012).  A group project, where all students contribute, may also help with the problems with group dynamics and poor self confidence you have mentioned. 

Would this work? Elise

Sinclair, C., Jeanneret, N., O'Toole, J. (Eds). (2012). Education in the arts (2nd, ed). South Melbourne, VIC: Oxford University Press.