Building Bridges

Tammy Quinn / 11 March 2025 / Categories: General

Since January 2025, a group of Year 7 pupils from Marsden Heights Community College have been collaborating with learners from Colne Park High School to discuss important community issues, exploring both differences and common ground. They have also focused on finding ways to overcome barriers and promote a more united, inclusive society.

On 28th March, the entire Year 7 cohort were invited to participate in a Talkoake session at Marsden Heights with Rauf Bashir from Building Bridges.  The session allowed pupils to engage in meaningful conversations about community relations, and they showed a respectful and mature approach to the discussions.

Mr Ayub, Subject Leader Design Technology and Building Bridges co-ordinator, said:

“Year 7’s approach to the discussions was commendable. We are confident that this experience has had a positive impact, equipping our pupils with valuable insights to help strengthen community connections.”

Our Year 7 pupils – Isa, Maryam, Sarah, Rejoice, Yusaf, Aisha, Qasam, Zainab, Halima and Huria – have played an essential role in making this initiative a success.

Building Bridges is a Pendle Schools Linking Network Programme and has involved pupils liaising with others from Colne Park High School. Through workshops, they have been working together to understand barriers within society and devising strategies to improve community relations, integration and interaction.

This programme has also been an opportunity for pupils to develop key social skills such as leadership, planning and teamwork. We’re proud of the ongoing positive work taking place to bring our community together in the spirit of common identity.