We are delighted to announce our innovative approach to education and community engagement work has been acknowledged by Historic Houses who awarded us the ‘Frances Garnham Award’ at their 2023 AGM.
The award commemorates the achievements of Frances Garnham, who worked as Director of Policy and Campaigns at Historic Houses until 2015. Frances was passionate about encouraging heritage sites to embrace the opportunities of engaging with a wide range of audiences, and this award in her name seeks to shine a light on innovative examples of learning and outreach.
Judges for the award were deeply impressed with the innovative work undertaken by our education team to use heritage to engage and inspire. This has been done through both curriculum-led education and learning programmes, and also more broadly in supporting people of all ages with their wellbeing and mental health, helping young people develop skills for the workplace, and providing opportunities for the local area that have long been missing.
Ben Cowell, Director General at Historic Houses, said: “Wentworth Woodhouse is a giant among country houses – with a big heart. We are delighted to be making this award, to recognise the work the team at Wentworth Woodhouse do to promote the house as a venue for learning and for inspiration, working closely with their local community in Rotherham. Many congratulations to the passionate and committed team at Wentworth Woodhouse, who are truly bringing this sleeping giant firmly back to life”
Jenifer Wall, Skills Development and Learning Officer at Wentworth Woodhouse, said: “We were delighted to win this award as it recognises the innovative and creative work we do here at Wentworth Woodhouse to support our local young people. It really is an honour to have our work celebrated by Historic Houses and I hope it will help us continue it for many years to come.”
We’re so proud of our team who continue to pave the way in terms of best-practice in the heritage sector. Long may our trailblazing reputation continue and how wonderful that a House so admired throughout its history for doing things differently continues to do so!