[C]ourteney Johnson, Eden Apprentice, won an award at the inaugural North West Cultural Education Awards ceremony that took place in Preston on Friday 28th April. The awards recognised the people and organisations that are working within the region to improve access to great art and culture for children and young people.
Organised by Curious Minds, a North West based charity, the creative and fun-filled event highlighted examples of best practice in the region’s arts and education sectors and celebrated increasing engagement in the ‘Cultural Education Challenge’ – an Arts Council England initiative.
Courteney was awarded The Chris May Award for Personal Achievement in recognition of the effort and dedication shown in achieving her Arts Award.
Courteney, along with eight other young people from Nacro in Carlisle, achieved her Bronze Arts Award through a partnership project between Eden Rivers Trust, Tullie House Museum and Art Gallery, Nacro and Inspira, supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund.
The project involved Nacro learners working alongside artists, Charlie Whinney and Nick Greenall, to create a sculpture called Marble Run: River in response to the 2015 floods which devastated many parts of Cumbria.
Courteney’s participation in and enjoyment of the project led her to successfully applying for an apprenticeship at Eden Rivers Trust – a job that she now loves.
Courteney said: “I was really nervous before they announced the award, but was over the moon when they called out my name. Opportunities like Marble Run and Arts Award don’t come round often, so it was great to do something I really enjoyed and receiving this award was the icing on the cake.”
Jo Spencer, Strategy Director, Eden Rivers Trust added: “We were delighted that Courteney won this award, it reflects all the hard work and commitment she demonstrated to achieve her Arts Award. She was a fantastic ambassador for our Marble Run: River project as well as for Nacro. Her enthusiasm and willingness to learn new skills was infectious; she openly encouraged others with less confidence to get involved.
“From splitting logs to talking to TV reporters and creating her Arts Award portfolio, she continuously pushed herself outside her comfort zone, and as a result discovered a new career in the outdoors.”
