Signal Festival, which provides opportunities for young people aged nine to 25, is among the finalists at the National Arts and Cultural Education Awards 2026.
The festival has been nominated in the Inspirational Local Partnership category, alongside organisations from Manchester, Salford and Brixton.
Organised by arts education charity Curious Minds, the awards attracted more than 250 entries across ten categories.
A panel of 25 judges from the arts, cultural and education sectors assessed the submissions, with winners due to be announced in Manchester on Wednesday 21st October.
Signal Festival was launched by Swindon-based charity Prime Theatre and is now in its third year.
The week-long event gives young people opportunities to explore music, dance, theatre, poetry, film and visual arts.
Young producers take the lead in planning, organising and promoting the festival, with support from Prime Theatre.
This year’s event, held between 24th July and 1st August, attracted hundreds of visitors to more than 40 events at over ten venues across Swindon.
Activities took place at locations including Town Gardens, Richard Jefferies Museum and The Platform.
More than 80 organisations, artists and creative practitioners were involved in delivering the programme.
Dr Nick Capstick OBE, Chair of the Board of Trustees for Prime Theatre, said:
“We’re delighted that Signal Festival has been recognised in this year’s National Arts and Cultural Education Awards.
“Signal Festival is only made possible by the incredible work of our partner organisations and artists, who work with us each year to deliver incredible opportunities to young people and put a spotlight on the culture and creativity that Swindon has to offer.”
The nomination comes as Swindon continues its bid to become UK City of Culture 2029.
Councillor Vallender, Cabinet Member for Culture, Planning and Regeneration at Swindon Borough Council, said:
“Signal Festival is a fantastic example of what can be achieved when organisations come together with a shared commitment to young people.
“This nomination recognises not only the dedication of Prime Theatre and the young producers who lead the festival, but also the strength of the partnerships that make it possible.
“The festival showcases the creativity, ambition and community spirit that are at the heart of Swindon’s UK City of Culture 2029 bid.
“By bringing together artists, cultural organisations, schools and communities, Signal Festival is helping to nurture talent, widen participation and demonstrate the transformative role culture can play in shaping a brighter future for our town.”
The festival aims to make arts and cultural activities accessible to young people from different backgrounds through free and low-cost opportunities.
Its partners have included Swindon Borough Council, Museum and Art Swindon, Create Studios, BBC Wiltshire and the National Trust.
Signal Festival will find out whether it has won at an awards ceremony at the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester next Wednesday.
