Bishop Hogarth Catholic Education Trust (BHCET) is thrilled to announce the launch of the Enrichment Partnership Pilot (EPP), an innovative program designed to enhance enrichment opportunities for students in Darlington and the surrounding area. This pioneering project aims to bolster students' confidence, self-belief, and essential skills for the future. Donna Hubbard-Young, Director of Opportunities at BHCET  said “The essence of the project is about partnerships and it’s wonderful to see so many people come together to help Darlington become a vibrant and transformative place for young people.”

The launch event, held at Blackwell Grange Hotel on Friday, June 7th, brought together an impressive array of businesses, organisations, and clubs, all eager to contribute to this project. BHCET is proud to have secured funding from the Department for Education (DfE) and the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), enabling the program to flourish. Sarah McGee - Trust Enrichment Partnership Manager, stated “It’s been fantastic to see so many organisations, businesses and clubs coming to support the fantastic pilot and pupils of Darlington and the surrounding areas, we hope that it’s successful, and we are already looking ahead to make this a sustainable model.”

The EPP is spearheaded by esteemed organisations, The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and the National Citizen Service (NCS), both renowned for their commitment to youth development. By partnering with these leaders in enrichment, BHCET aims to offer a diverse range of activities and experiences that go beyond the classroom. Mike Shorten, CEO of BHCET said “This is a very exciting initiative where we really hope Darlington and the surrounding area get together to offer some exciting opportunities for the children of the region.”

The EPP will introduce a variety of programs, ensuring that every student has the chance to discover and develop their unique talents and interests. The initiative also aims to forge stronger links between schools and the wider community, creating a supportive network that champions student success. BHCET is committed to the development of every child, and the Enrichment Partnership Pilot is a testament to this dedication. By enhancing the enrichment offer, BHCET continues to strive towards its mission of developing the whole child, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to thrive both academically and personally.

For more information about the Enrichment Partnership Pilot and how to get involved, please contact epp@bhcet.org.uk