In September 2023, we officially launched Sampad Associate Schools. Teachers, stakeholders and members of staff celebrated the end of our From City of Empire to City of Diversity project and welcomed in the new Associate Schools scheme. We had speeches, caught up with our collaborators and of course ate cake!
Sampad has been working in Birmingham and beyond for 30 years and over that time has worked with many local schools on a range of Arts and Heritage Projects. In 2019 we were funded by the National Heritage Lottery Fund to create a major exhibition at the Library of Birmingham for the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games. The exhibition, From City of Empire to City of Diversity: Visual Journey, used the photo collection of local photographer Earnest Dyche, housed in Birmingham Archives and documented the story of migration to the city.
A portable version of the exhibition was created alongside comprehensive online learning resources and over the past two years, twenty-two schools have used it to enrich their curriculum. Staff involved in the project expressed a keenness to continue using the materials even when the exhibition had finished and a number of teachers also approached Sampad for artists and productions to support their work in other areas of the curriculum.
In response to this, we have developed Sampad Associate Schools which will allow both existing and new schools to host the From City of Empire to City of Diversity exhibition. Schools will also gain access to the online resources as well as a whole day Heritage training session for two members of staff on 28th September. Our associate schools will also enjoy a wide range of exclusive benefits and opportunities, supporting cultural and curriculum development.
This is a subscription service but one which is mindful of financial constraints. As well as our Ruby, Emerald and Sapphire tiers, we also offer a bespoke relationship for schools who are keen to bring in a specific artist regularly or develop a longer term project with us. As schools are always refining their curriculum we also offer a menu of one off workshops and performances which can be booked respective of whether you are a Sampad Associate School. (Sampad Associate Schools receive advance booking and a discount on any workshops or performances throughout the year).
We hope you will be keen to join us on this exciting journey and we are happy to meet with you to discuss any elements of our offer and your vision for your school/department. Contact learning@sampad.org.uk for more information.
Related
