GEM rolls into town…

Yesterday saw the Group for Education in Museums (GEM) annual conference at Hampton Court Palace.

A lively programme was kicked off by keynote speakers Andrew Gilyard from the Children’s Society and Sandy Nairne from the National Portrait Gallery, who both gave thoughtful comment on the role that museums, galleries and heritage sites can play in responding to young people’s needs in a changing political climate.

HRP ran four sessions in the afternoon, including a case-study presentation of the ‘Chance of a Lifetime’ conserving the White Tower project by Alex, a look at how HRP approaches the delivery of A-level across sites (with input from A-level teachers Anmarie and Roisin - great to have your views!) by Gilly and Amanda, a presentation by Sarah Philips from our Outreach team on the social value of Kensington Palace to local youth groups and a panel discussion from HRP’s 3 artists-in-residence to date, hosted by Lee and Susie.

A great day, but special thanks must go to our five HRP volunteers, Veronica, Ann, Audrey, Sophie and Sarah, for directing delegates, leading tours and providing information throughout a long day with such tireless enthusiasm and friendliness!

The conference continues today at Strawberry Hill.