A new £193,000 education programme will help young people explore creative arts careers in Ipswich. The Wolsey 550 project, which runs until March 2025, offers hands-on learning experiences for children aged 5-16 across the town.
The big picture: The programme builds on Cardinal Thomas Wolsey's educational legacy in Ipswich and is part of Suffolk County Council's £2 million Ipswich Investment Fund.
The programme, which launched in September 2023, is available to all primary and secondary schools within Ipswich Borough, including alternative provisions.
Key features for primary schools:
• Creative workshops focusing on confidence and communication
• Digital literacy and skills development
• Curriculum-linked learning materials
Secondary school pupils will benefit from:
• Real-world workplace experiences with Ipswich organisations
• Curriculum materials themed around Wolsey's legacy
• Career pathway guidance
Support for educators:
• Professional development opportunities
• Resources for careers education
• Cross-curriculum teaching materials
What they’re saying: Cllr Paul West, Suffolk County Council's cabinet member for Ipswich, operational highways and flooding, said: "It is fantastic to see the progress already being made with these projects as a result of funding committed by Suffolk County Council. There are now 13 projects underway with some fantastic organisations, all working collaboratively for the benefit of Ipswich residents."
The bottom line: Following in Thomas Wolsey's educational footsteps, the project aims to inspire the next generation of creative professionals in Ipswich through practical, hands-on learning experiences.
