More than 300 schoolchildren put on stunning performances at Durham Cathedral to highlight the power of unity and hope.
Youngsters aged from eight to 18, from 29 primary and secondary schools in Durham, South Tyneside and Sunderland, were taking part in the Footsteps into Paradise show this week.
The performances, organised by Bishop Chadwick Catholic Education Trust, were part of a long-term Journeys of Hope project, aiming to demonstrate how young people can adapt to any situations they may face and continue to feel inspired and engaged with learning.
The shows also recognised why tolerance, kindness and acceptance were vital in society, and put a spotlight on the challenges people faced during the pandemic including issues of loneliness, anxiety and isolation. Local performer Mike McGrother, who has been involved with schools for many years, was the creative director of Journeys of Hope.
Brendan Tapping, CEO at Bishop Chadwick Catholic Trust, said: “The pandemic showed us all how, more than ever, schools provide a vital link in uniting local communities, especially during difficult times. We started the Journeys of Hope project at the very beginning of the pandemic as we wanted pupils to understand how working together and reacting to challenging situations as positively as possible can develop great personal qualities such as resilience, spirit and aspiration.
“The performances were absolutely fantastic and a credit not only to the pupils who represented their school but to the teachers and support staff who have continued to nurture and develop children despite the odds being stacked against them for a long period of time.
“Our Trust is focused on building better schools, better communities and better futures in Christ. The performances truly encapsulated this by inspiring togetherness, hope and learning. This was a huge milestone in the journey we’re all on - thank you to our wonderful pupils, staff and, of course, to Mike, for making it happen.”
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