Eyes to the front of the class: An update on our exciting Education Centre

 The build of the Education Centre, one of the largest buildings on site, is now well underway. The building is part of phase two of the construction plan at Chester House Estate and is set on the footprint of the farm’s original cattle shed.

Outside the new Education Centre

Its main purpose is to host educational sessions for children and adults and so contains three large classrooms, two of which will accommodate 60+ students. A newly appointed Education and Heritage Officer will take the lead will be heading up programmes which will offer education in areas including history, archaeology, geography, farm business, work experience placement, internships and adult education – a diverse programme.

We will be working closely with Leicester University, Moulton College, The Creating Tomorrow Trust, The Nenescape Partnership Scheme and of course with local schools to deliver exciting educational events focussed on the social and agricultural heritage of the site, as well as working in line with the National Curriculum.

The interpretation centre will also be a part of this building. Here we’ll be able to showcase all sorts of fascinating artefacts from 10,000 years of history on site. The interior layout for this is currently at the design stage, but the plan is for it to be laid-out in an immersive and accessible style, with plenty of interactive elements.

Interpretation Team

The volunteer hub, for those working on the estate and in the wider community, will also be based in this building. Judging by the response we have had to volunteer opportunities, it’s sure to be a hive of activity.

If you are interested in an educational visit to the Chester House Estate or to register interest as a volunteer, please contact Thomas.jolley@northnorthants.gov.uk

Works taking place inside the Education Centre