‘Cultural Basket’ Department

The ‘Cultural Basket’ is a national programme for art education in schools and kindergartens and is carried out as part of formal studies. Established in 1988 by the Ministry of Education, Culture and Sports, it is implemented by Omanut La’am in conjunction with municipal governments and local authorities throughout the country and is subsidised by the Ministry of Education, Culture and Sports. The goal of the ‘Cultural Basket’ programme is to introduce arts and culture to young Israelis, encouraging enjoyment of and participation in cultural activities from an early age and fostering the development of personal taste and the capacity for critical evaluation of art. The programme ensures methodological exposure of pupils to all forms of the arts, including theatre, dance, music, film, literature and the visual arts. Between kindergarten and 12th grade, each child is required to attend cultural performances, art films and/or art museums five or six times each year as part of their curriculum; 50% of the ticket cost is subsidised and transportation is arranged. ‘Cultural Basket’ programmes are selected in advance, before the beginning of each school year, according to a long-term plan. The teachers and principals select the programmes from the recommended options approved by the Repertoire Committee of Omanut La’am. The artistic activities of the ‘Cultural Basket’ are accompanied by educational materials for teachers and pupils, consultancy on educational matters and a series of study days.