FUNDING:  CIRCA £10K

(various including Arts Council and Aura)

Through the wider regeneration of the Walker area in the east end of Newcastle, it was determined that two primary schools, St Anthony’s Primary School and Wharrier Street Primary School, would be closed in July 2012.  Following the closure of the schools, the primary provision in the local area was to be delivered by a completely brand new built school, Central Walker Church of England Primary School.

The new school was developed and delivered by Aura as Newcastle City Council’s delivery partner and opened in September 2012.

Aura worked to support St Anthony’s and Wharrier Street Primary Schools during the transitional period leading up to their closure and the joining of their collective population in a new school.  As part of that collaborative process a long term community cohesion project was identified.

“Walker Together” focused on bringing together the two school communities by involving the whole school and its extended community. It was designed to work with both children and adults to research and explore both the positive and exciting opportunities as well as any negative issues that could potentially arise. The project was delivered through drama and media, these techniques are proven to:

• Increase confidence raise self-esteem
• Develop social skills and
• To create moments of pride and achievement

These are valuable tools which will support the children of Walker in all aspects of life, particularly as they take ownership of their new school building and learn to enjoy and engage in the new learning environment which Aura has developed for them.

Secondary students from nearby Walker Technology College worked collaboratively both with primary school students and the media production crew to document the entire project for legacy purposes.  The students were also able to gain unique learning and working experiences through the project.

Aura is particularly committed to supporting the engagement of new learning experiences and raising aspirations for North East communities.

By bringing the two primary schools and the extended community together in a non threatening inclusive manner Walker Together was able to support many, varying members of the community to work together.

Through the delivery and experience of the project:

• Learning was achieved
• Fears were explored
• Fear replaced by excitement at the prospect of a new school building and community in which to learn, work and enjoy

“It came together in the end and I was really so pleased with the parental response. The fact they crossed Walker road and turned out in such numbers was fantastic.”

Stuart Walker, Head, St Anthony’s

“Really enjoyed the play, thought it explored friendships and the worries what with the two schools coming together well”

Mandy (parent)