Culture secretary Tessa Jowell has announced the creation of a new national award for achievement through the arts.

The Young People’s Arts Award, which will be run by Arts Council England, will be aimed at people aged between 13 and 25 years old to recognise participation in and engagement in the arts.

The award, which will initially offer Silver and Gold levels – a Bronze level is in development – is being piloted across the country through local education authorities, youth arts organisations and young offenders groups.

split into three parts, it will recognise individual achievement through developing arts skills; taking part in arts events and exploring training and employment opportunities and finally demonstrating leadership and teamwork through planning an running an arts project.

“The new scheme aims to encourage young people to develop their creative potential,” said Jowell. “It will provide a high profile, credible award that will be both an achievement in itself and, we hope, a recognised qualification.”

Chair of Arts Council England, Sir Christopher Frayling, added: “The award offers tremendous potential for sowing the seeds of commitment to the arts.”