A project using art to help disadvantaged children has been nominated for a £20,000 prize.

The Art Room, based at Oxford School, in Glanville Road, is a space where children who are at risk of exclusion can express themselves creatively.

The facility, which is supported by the Oxford Mail's sister paper, the Oxford Times, is one of just five schools nationwide shortlisted for the Barbie Prize -- which is awarded to schools in recognition of outstanding artwork.

Work by Art Room pupils went on display in a public exhibition at the Royal College of Art in London.

The Art Room, which is a registered charity, was set up by artist and teacher Juli Beattie.

She said: "We are overwhelmed. We didn't think we could be nominated.

"We are trying to keep calm but it is very exciting that the children's work has already been recognised. Even if we don't win, it is still fantastic. "

She added: "If it wasn't for the Oxford Times, we would not be so well recognised."

Among the art on display at the RCA are a decorated table, chair, tea-set and plates painted with self portraits of the children.

Organised by Mattel UK, and named after the popular child's doll it manufactures, the Barbie Prize is part of a worldwide charitable programme supporting arts education. The winner will be announced on December 5. In addition to the main school prize, there will also be a cash prize of £1,000 for the most outstanding individual piece of work.

Judges include children's TV presenter Arabella Warner and Ivan Massow, former chairman of the Institute of Contemporary Arts.