Here is an example of a partnership project which is run digitally:
River of Hope: Norfolk – Seine-Maritime
River of Hope is an international arts and education initiative, led by the Thames Fstival trust, which empowers young people to explore the climate crisis creatively, while building meaningful connections between schools across borders.
In 2024, as part of the British Council France’s Spotlight on UK Culture programme, ten primary schools in Seine-Maritime were partnered with ten schools in Norfolk. This cross-Channel collaboration allowed pupils to reflect artistically on environmental issues and share their perspectives with their international peers.
Building on the success of the first edition, the project expanded this year to include not only the same ten primary schools, but also three secondary schools from the same region.
Artworks created by participating pupils were officially unveiled during two events:
– On 2 June at INSA Rouen – [see photos here]
– On 24 June at L’Atrium in Rouen – [see photos here]
The project also aims to support professional development for teachers in both France and the UK by encouraging the use of arts-based learning. A combination of in-person workshops and virtual sessions was offered to help educators gain confidence in integrating creative approaches into their teaching, including in science, geography, music and English.
For more information about the River of Hope programme and its broader international scope, visit the Norfolk & Norwich Festival website.
Next year the project will reach new classes in France and in the UK, around the Totally Thames Festival.
