Students from St John’s Catholic School & Sixth Form College enjoyed an inspiring morning of creativity and discovery as part of their ongoing enrichment programme, with Class 7O visiting The Auckland Project.
The educational visit gave students the opportunity to explore the Mining Art Gallery, where they engaged with artwork reflecting the region’s rich mining heritage. Through this experience, students deepened their understanding of local history while developing their appreciation for art.
Learning from Local Artistic Legends
During the visit, students were introduced to the work of renowned mining artists Tom McGuinness and Norman Cornish, whose pieces capture the lives and experiences of the North East’s mining communities.
By examining these collections, 7O gained insight into how art can tell powerful stories about the past, connecting them to the heritage of their local area.
Hands-On Creativity in Action
The trip wasn’t just about observing art — students also had the chance to create their own pieces inspired by what they had seen. Using specialist techniques, they:
- Produced mono prints influenced by the featured artists
- Experimented with etching techniques
- Worked with a real printing press
These practical activities allowed students to develop new creative skills while applying what they had learned in a hands-on environment.
A Memorable Enrichment Experience
The visit provided a valuable blend of art, local history, and experiential learning, making it a standout moment in the Year 7 enrichment calendar.
Staff praised the group for their conduct throughout the trip. Miss Heads and Mrs Deverell commended students for their excellent manners, creativity, and respectful attitudes, highlighting how positively they represented the school.
Celebrating Student Engagement
It was clear that students fully embraced the experience, with many showing enthusiasm and pride in their artwork. The visit successfully encouraged both creative expression and cultural awareness, key elements of St John’s commitment to a broad and engaging curriculum.
The Year 7 Auckland Project visit reflects St John’s Catholic School & Sixth Form College’s ongoing dedication to providing enriching opportunities that connect learning beyond the classroom.