Secretary of State champions Engaging Places

The important role that buildings and places can play in education has been highlighted by the Rt Hon Andy Burnham, Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport.

Speaking at an event to showcase projects from schools, he said:

‘I’m a proud champion of Engaging Places because it is one of best tools we have to break down barriers and give every young person the chance to get involved with creative skills that shape the places where we live and work.’

Engaging Places champions teaching and learning through the whole built environment, from grand historic buildings to streets and neighbourhoods. It includes a major new online teaching resource, www.engagingplaces.org.uk.

Projects from 15 schools were showcased and some of the pupils interviewed Andy Burnham. St Martin’s in the Field’s in London’s Trafalgar Square and the Liver Building in Liverpool were revealed as amongst the Secretary of State’s favourite buildings, but top of the list was Goodison Park – home of Everton Football Ground.

One primary school student asked the minster when he had been given an opportunity to make an impact in his school and he said he advocated for a cricket pitch on the school grounds, which is still used today.

The 15 schools showcased proved that buildings and places can provide learning opportunities for all learners, but this can be low-cost as using your local high street. Some of the school projects on show had simply used their school grounds or their local street.

Some of the students recorded videos of their projects and interviewed guests.

Related links

• Engaging Places - a resource to support teaching and learning through buildings and places.