190 children from schools across Newcastle-under-Lyme have learnt about Philip Astley’s story at Newcastle-under-Lyme Library. In October and November 2017, staff at Newcastle-under-Lyme Library, the Brampton Museum and local Children’s Centres worked with the New Vic Theatre’s Education Team to develop the storytelling skills and knowledge of Philip Astley’s story.
Children from local schools Hassell Street, St Mary’s, St Giles and St George’s, all visited the library and took part in interactive activities that will help them remember Astley’s story. Likewise, the staff involved are now more confident to share Philip Astley’s story with other children in their regular library sessions.
Staff from the New Vic Theatre and Newcastle-under-Lyme Library will now work together to produce a resource that can be shared with people working with children at libraries, museums, schools and children’s centres. The materials will be made freely available on the Philip Astley Project website in 2018.
The Philip Astley Project aims to increase pride in Newcastle-under-Lyme through raising awareness of Philip Astley’s life and legacy. Training our local trainers is just one way we are embedding Astley’s story in our collective consciousness!