ROUTE 4/NEW PATHS
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The result

The outcomes of the project have included:

• Helping to expand the education provision available through the museum and make it more accessible to hard to reach students
• An increase in confidence and self esteem for the student involved in the pilot project
• Developing interest in and commitment to the heritage sector - for example, the student has begun to be involved with events on voluntary basis, and has decided to spend his fortnight's work experience there
• Skills development, including environmental management, maintenance, team working, interpersonal skills and work skills
• Increased capacity for Creswell Crags, both through the development of in-house skills and provision and through benefiting from the input of the student
• A learning experience for Creswell Crags - particularly for the Warden involved as a mentor. If New Paths proceeds then the Warden will be more directly involved in the recruitment of students.

‘We realised that giving responsibility is nothing to be scared of’

The reasons for its success

Creswell cites the following factors as contributing to the success of the pilot project:

• The site offers a unique environment in which to learn
• There is a friendly, relaxed, welcoming atmosphere, which has helped to make the student feel at home
• Site staff are a close knit team with a strong commitment to outreach/community work
• The project has offered a tailored programme providing the student with what they need - close one to one mentoring, backed up by a programme of activities
• Flexibility and enthusiasm of staff have been crucial to the project's success. There was a willingness to be bold and open - and run with it!

‘We want this to be student centred - we take it at the student's own pace’

Further information