We are pleased to announce that the Devonshire Educational Trust (DET) has formally merged with the Chatsworth House Trust (CHT) with effect from 1 September 2021.
Since 2004, DET has operated successfully as an independent charity, delivering learning experiences at Chatsworth and, in more recent years, at Bolton Abbey and Lismore Castle. Merging with CHT, and continuing to operate in all three locations, will enable us develop and fulfil our ambitions even further for learning and engagement across the Devonshire Group.
Following the merger, DET will become the new Learning and Engagement department, and will take responsibility for leading CHT’s fulfilment of one of its primary objectives – “Advancing education for the public in the arts and sciences”. DET’s education strategy has been adopted by the new department, whose remit will include continuing a service at both Bolton Abbey and Lismore.
There are many success stories to celebrate since 2004, including
- A growth in capacity and participation that saw us reach over 30,000 education visitors in 2019, taking part in school workshops and self-led visits, family learning experiences, adult learning sessions and subsidised entry for community groups and schools who would not otherwise have been able to visit.
- The opening of two designated Learning Centres at Chatsworth, in 2015 and 2018, enabling access and facilitating learning opportunities for school groups, students, families and young people.
- Supporting the transition from primary to secondary education through a programme of activities for incoming year 7s to meet other students starting at the same school. Originating at Bolton Abbey, these out-of-school session complemented a high quality programme of outdoor learning workshops designed to grow children’s environmental awareness.
- A joint bid for the Department for Education (Ireland) Creative Cluster scheme, enabling five local primary schools to regularly attend art workshops held at Lismore Castle Arts. The programme provides rural schools with access to art, connection with nature and confidence in using cultural spaces.
We would like to express our gratitude and thanks to our supporters and to our Trustees, without whom these achievements would not have been possible.
The merger will create opportunities to further embed learning and more in-depth ways of working with audiences into CHT and we look forward to further successful learning opportunities in the future.
Lord Burlington, Chair of the Devonshire Educational Trust
Andrew Lavery, CEO, Chatsworth House Trust
