The Auckland Project lit up young people’s Christmas calendars by hosting students from nearby schools and sixth forms at AGLOW.
Partnering with The Oaks Secondary School, King James I Academy and Parkside Academy, students were invited to the festive experiences as part of an extensive community engagement programme, giving them the opportunity to access local culture and heritage.
Students completing their Duke of Edinburgh Award from The Oaks Secondary School’s sixth form attended the Christmas festivities. As part of their volunteering commitments, the students designed a new walking trail for primary school children to follow around Auckland Palace’s historic Walled Gardens and deer park. The volunteers also plotted the direction, highlighted landscapes and waymarkers and updated maps and marketing materials.
From King James I Academy, the Anti-Bullying Ambassadors attended in return for their hard work supporting the school’s policy on anti-bullying and for the student support systems they’ve put in place to help their peers. Competition winners from last year’s Business Magnates team also attended, to celebrate their success at the County Durham competition developing a business proposal.
Students from Parkside Academy also received tickets as several young people have overcome difficult circumstances, shown resilience and become more independent, whilst continuing to show exceptional manners, attendance and general behaviour.
Richard Hinch, head of learning at The Auckland Project, said: “We have an extensive education programme here at The Auckland Project, partnering with schools and universities to further individuals’ access to learning and share our wealth of history.
“Recognition in achievements, effort and extracurricular activities can be a vital way of building self confidence in young people and we’re delighted to be working with these schools, helping to make cultural memories and reward students’ endeavours.”
As well as educational collaborations, The Auckland Project offers local students volunteering opportunities at its attractions including the Spanish Gallery, Mining Art Gallery, Auckland Tower, the Faith Museum, and the Auckland Palace and Gardens. Volunteering roles include tours, ticket sales, administration and marketing and these placements have resulted in part time employment and helped young people develop their CV’s.
“AGLOW is lighting up our festive season again and it’s been wonderful to welcome visitors back, including local students. Whilst we love to recognise hard work and community spirit, sharing this joyful and illuminating experience with young people is also a way that the team at The Auckland Project can inspire the next generation to enter the arts, culture and heritage sector,” added Richard.
Christmas at the Palace and AGLOW take place until 31st December (excluding Christmas Day). A combination ticket for AGLOW and Christmas at the Palace is available from £33.50 for adults, £22 for children and £96.50 for a family (two adults and two children).
Ticket prices for AGLOW are £21.75 for adults, £14.75 for children and £68 for a family (two adults and two children). Book via the website: www.aucklandaglow.org.
Ticket prices for Christmas at the Palace are £20 for adults, £12.50 for children and £52.50 for a family (two adults and two children), or free with an Unlimited Pass. Book via the website: www.aucklandproject.org/event/christmas-at-the-palace/.
Bishop Auckland's local community newspaper.
