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Students of Tees Valley Collaborative Trust set to explore the world after incredible funding award

Exciting news has emerged from Tees Valley Collaborative Trust! 

The Trust recently announced that they’ve been awarded a fantastic £173,442.50 from the Turing Scheme, the UK government’s initiative that opens doors for international education and training opportunities.

This is a golden chance for their students to work on their personal development while they study and work abroad, and create unforgettable memories along the way. Such a unique opportunity supports the new International Strategy for the Trust, which will be led by Alexis Jackson, new International Partnership Strategy Developer.  

Alexis shared her enthusiasm: “Travel enriches lives in so many ways! It deepens our understanding of diverse cultures, introduces us to new places, and lets us explore the world. 

“This funding will enable our students to visit incredible destinations they’ve only dreamed of, forging memories that will last a lifetime. I’m excited to be part of developing our international strategy and can’t wait for the amazing opportunities we’ll offer our students!”

The possibilities really are endless

The new academic year has barely even started, and yet there are already some thrilling prospects on the horizon for students at Stockton Sixth Form and Prior Pursglove College.

In January, a group will embark on an adventure to Sri Lanka, volunteering for two weeks on a Childcare and Community Programme. This journey promises to immerse them in vibrant cultures and traditions, as they engage with the community and participate in various social and cultural activities. 

Students will work hand-in-hand with staff in care centres and special needs schools, supporting early childhood development through play. Plus, later in the year, another group will have the chance to explore the Medicine and Community Programme in Sri Lanka, shadowing medical professionals during ward rounds, in clinics, and in theatres.

It doesn’t stop there…

The funding will also pave the way for lucky college students to live and work in the stunning city of Lisbon, Portugal. Next June, they’ll embark on a four-week internship, gaining invaluable work experience in their chosen fields. 

This hands-on experience will bridge their classroom learning with the real world, helping them develop essential employability skills that will serve them well into the future. And that’s exactly what these types of experiences are all about. 

Errington Primary School is also set to benefit, as they’ll be taking 20 Year 5 and 6 students on an exciting six-day trip to their partner school in Bonne, Germany. This experience will allow them to explore what life is like in another country, comparing customs and schooling while fostering a sense of global community. 

Chris Zarraga, Director of Schools North East, said: “This funding truly sounds like it’ll change so many pupils’ lives for the better, and we’re so pleased for all those involved.

“By exposing pupils to a world of possibilities, both at home and abroad, you’re setting them up for success while positively impacting the local community and wider region – and there’s no greater reward than that.

“We look forward to following the students’ journeys as they embark on these incredible adventures.”

Tees Valley Collaborative Trust is a Schools North East Partner Trust. If you’d like to find out more about our Partner School membership, click here.

We love to hear good news from North East Schools! To share your news with Schools North East, please tag @SchoolsNE on X (formley Twitter) or fill out this short form here.

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