New education project brings Bangor’s saints and stories into classrooms

The Diocese of Bangor has joined forces with Bangor University and local partners to launch a new education project that brings the city’s rich heritage into schools.

The Bangor Heritage College programme includes modules on the life and legacy of St Deiniol, Bangor Cathedral, St Tegai’s Church as well as other famous landmarks across the city. Through interactive lessons and visits, pupils will explore local history, fascinating buildings and pilgrimage traditions, strengthening their connection to Wales’ oldest city. The project launches as part of Bangor’s 1500 year celebrations.

Resources on pilgrimage, church engagement and the history of the saints have been created for local schools and churches.

Students will be able to earn credits by completing research modules on Bangor’s heritage, working towards bronze, silver and gold certificates. The programme will culminate in a graduation ceremony for those who complete the credits.

More than 30 pupils from seven schools attended the launch at Bangor University’s historic Powis Hall. They were welcomed by Dr Martin Hanks, City Director, and Cllr Medwyn Hughes, Mayor of Bangor, before project leads Nia Young, Senior Lecturer in Education and Counselling, and Mervyn Jones introduced the programme.

As part of the Diocese of Bangor’s education work, resources on pilgrimage, church engagement and the history of the saints have been created for local schools and churches. Nia Elain Roberts, School Pilgrimage Engagement Officer for the Diocese , worked with Mervyn Jones to create units on Bangor Cathedral and Saint Deiniol.

Nia says, “Heritage College is a great resource for teachers that meets the requirements of the new Curriculum regarding learners’ understanding of their local environment. It provides an opportunity to spark curiosity, encourage children, their families, and schools to visit the Cathedral and other institutions around the city.

“Through independent research tasks, learners will expand their knowledge, learn to respect their local area, and have the chance to take pride in what surrounds them.”

Dr Nia Young says, “Bangor Heritage College is a fantastic opportunity for young people to learn more about the rich history of the Bangor area. It’s a way for students to engage with their local community and for us to build on the connection between the University, the city, and the younger generation.”

The Heritage College team will visit schools in the New Year to support pupils as they begin working through the modules.

“We’re very excited about working with schools in Bangor to support children in exploring their local heritage over the coming months. Special thanks to Mervyn Jones for preparing the learning modules, which are invaluable in connecting local school pupils with Bangor’s rich history and heritage.”

To find out more and to access the course visit
https://www.bangor.ac.uk/community/bangor-heritage-college