16-07-2025
Schools contribute to their communities and environment through 'dynamic' imitative
SCHOOLS across Cumbria gathered to celebrate their part in a 'dynamic initiative' which inspires youngsters to become positive role models and contribute to their communities and environment.
The Brilliant Cumbria Programme, which is in its fourth year, focused its latest phase on deepening students' connection to their local environment and strengthening community ties.
Children who took part in the Brilliant Cumbria programme attended a closing gala at Low Gillerthwaite Field Centre in Ennerdale (Image: Submitted)
With West Cumbria's proximity to the Lake District, students explored the mental health benefits of nature while engaging in meaningful, community-based projects.
The programme kicked off at Whitehaven Academy with a launch day led by the Art of Brilliance team. Students and teachers took part in interactive training sessions focused on personal development themes such as positivity, resilience, responsibility, and the ripple effect of kindness.
Each participating school selected 12 student leaders—known as Wellbeing Ambassadors in secondary schools and Happiness Ninjas in primary schools—who championed the programme's core values: positivity, kindness, resilience, community spirit and environmental responsibility.
Students take part in activities at Low Gillerthwaite Field Centre in Ennerdale (Image: Submitted)
As part of a Golden Ticket Challenge, each school received a mystery ticket having the name of a local community or environmental enterprise.
Their mission was to reach out, collaborate, and document their journey—highlighting the impact of their work on themselves, their schools, and the wider community.
The groups were Low Gillerthwaite Field Centre, Goodlives, Farmlife West Cumbria, Workington Nature Trust, Cumbria Wildlife, Riverside Trust and Sustainable Keswick.
The programme culminated in a closing gala at Low Gillerthwaite Field Centre in Ennerdale on July 7.
Children connected to their local environment and strengthened community ties during the programme (Image: Submitted)
The Brilliant Cumbria team has extended thanks to all participating schools and students, Art of Brilliance team, local community groups and charities involved this year, especially Ellen and Walter from Low Gillerthwaite Field Centre who hosted and helped to organise the day.
The team also thanked programme sponsors, TDA, ADAPT, IDS, i3, and CNSL, who are all partners of the Decommissioning Delivery Partnership part of Sellafield SiX Social Impact Strategy, and AtkinsRéalis, ORANO, and the Cumberland Community Safety Partnerships.
Alison Young, social value lead for The Decommissioning Alliance and Brilliant Cumbria programme lead, said: 'We believe this initiative has the power to create lasting change - not just in our schools, but across the entire community.'
Ellen Cloete, warden of Low Gillerthwaite Field Centre, added. 'We've absolutely loved being part of the Brilliant Cumbria Programme this year.
Youngsters at Low Gillerthwaite Field Centre in Ennerdale (Image: Submitted)
'It's been a real joy to host the schools and their Happiness Ninjas / Ambassador here in the heart of Ennerdale – giving them the chance to connect with this special environment and grow a sense of community.
'It's been a pleasure meeting so many inspiring young people, and hosting the finale was a real highlight.
"An amazing journey from start to finish."
Laurie Black, director of learning for Year Eight and Year Nine at The Whitehaven Academy, said: 'The work our community has been doing over the past year has been truly special.
'It's not just about helping our students learn and grow, it's about helping them develop a sense of pride, a sense of togetherness, and a sense of belonging. The impact they've had has been incredible.
'Watching all our students grow, learn, and thrive has been an absolute pleasure. When we work together, we can achieve so much more. That's exactly what we've done here."
Jericho Primary School pupils cuddle the puppies at Low Gillerthwaite Field Centre in Ennerdale (Image: Submitted)
Emma Thompson, senior manager for community safety and resilience public health, customer and community wellbeing, said: 'I am so proud to be part of the Brilliant Cumbria squad and see the positive change in young people through this experiential programme, year after year.
'The closing gala was an inspiring day full of connection, laughter, learning and amazing experiences for adults and children alike. Cumberland Community Safety Partnership takes a proactive approach to support experiences for young people that help our community to thrive and be an amazing place to live.'
