On Tuesday 13th May, our Harton Academy boys’ wellbeing and aspirations group had a wonderful visit from Dan Lilley, senior researcher at The Centre for Social Justice. Dan is part of a parental participation research project, aimed at re-engaging parents in their child’s education and re-building communication and trust between home and school. We are pleased to be contributing to this research on parental engagement and attendance in schools, helping to inform government policies.
Our wellbeing and aspirations group were amazing at helping Dan to understand the specific challenges we face in the North East. They were particularly interested about life in London and his job in Westminster!
This research will be released in Autumn, which we will be sure to share!


Self-Belief and Emotional Wellbeing / September 3rd, 2019
Aspirations and Future Planning / September 3rd, 2019
Starting School
As we approach the ‘big day’ for the students who are either starting school or who are moving up to ‘big school’, I thought I would share my own experience of the preparation for my own first day at school.
Aspirations and Future Planning / January 15th, 2025
Supporting our Young People into University - Our Guide
One key talking point when visiting Newcastle University on our recent trips, was discussing the range of routes and support available to students from varying backgrounds, to ensure that they can still access the opportunities that more privileged students can access. This ranges from reduced grade offers, to financial support whilst at university, to a support network of similar students before they begin university; we have collated this helpful guide of some of these access schemes available in the North East.
Consett Heritage Project / March 8th, 2024
Jean Simmons - Consett Heritage Podcast
Our volunteer, Maisie Dobson, conducts an interview with her great-grandma, Jean Simmons, aged 96, discussing life and work in Consett during the peak of the Consett Steelworks era. During the conversation, Jean mentions a royal visit to the steelworks, prompting Maisie to enquire about its accuracy. Upon researching, we discovered that the event did indeed occur. Listen in to enjoy this unique recording, offering insights into the social history of Consett.