MaryWalks: Discovering the Hidden Gems of Maryport, Step by Step! 6 Jul 2023
Empowering Young Minds through Social Enterprise
In a collaboration between Maryport School and Grisdales, the spirit of entrepreneurship and community engagement has taken root. The Bright Stars program, an initiative designed to promote leadership skills and community involvement amongst local children, provided the perfect platform for the partnership between Grisdales and Maryport School. With £50 seed fund, the students were empowered to create a social enterprise business that would make a positive impact on their local community. Inspired by the desire to get people active and out exploring the area, they chose to develop a walking brochure that would capture the beauty and charm of Maryport.
Exploring the Local Area, One Step at a Time
Armed with GoPro cameras, notepads, and a sense of adventure, the children took on the task of completing all six walks featured in the brochure. They meticulously documented each walk, capturing stunning images, recording videos, and writing detailed directions to guide future explorers. Their enthusiasm and dedication shone through as they traversed picturesque landscapes, historic sites, and hidden gems, uncovering the treasures of Maryport that often go unnoticed.
Designing a Masterpiece
The culmination of their efforts resulted in the creation of a visually stunning and informative walking brochure. The students poured their creativity into the design, ensuring it would captivate and inspire readers to embark on their own walking adventures. With the help of Firpress, the brochure was professionally printed, and the first batch quickly sold out. Encouraged by their initial success, the children eagerly reprinted a second batch to meet the overwhelming interest.
Awards and Recognition
The dedication and ingenuity displayed by the students did not go unnoticed. At the Centre for Leadership and Performance’s prestigious awards ceremony, Maryport School emerged victorious, securing £100 and an award for the Best Use of Technology. This accolade highlighted the students’ ability to harness modern tools like GoPro cameras and digital design to create a truly immersive and engaging experience through their walking brochure. It marked the second consecutive year that their exceptional efforts were celebrated, solidifying their reputation as trailblazers within the Bright Stars program!