Journeys of Hope
Journeys of Hope was a series of creative collaborations across our Trust which brought pupils, staff and local communities together from 2020–2023 to explore identity and celebrate a shared spirit of community. Through music, dance, poetry and visual arts, the project demonstrated how young people can stay inspired, adaptable and connected during challenging times.
Our Journey
Creative collaborations across Bishop Chadwick Catholic Education Trust from 2020–2023.
We’ll Meet Again
A virtual choir brought together 180 pupils from 11 schools to perform We’ll Meet Again as part of the Trust’s VE Day commemorations.
Angels We Have Heard on High
Almost 2,000 pupils from 12 schools came together to perform Angels We Have Heard on High, a Carol for the North-East written by Bishop Chadwick.
Footsteps into Paradise
The Trust delivered its most ambitious creative project to date: Footsteps into Paradise, an immersive musical and art experience created with more than 300 pupils, staff and community groups.
Led by local performer Mike McGrother, the production told the story of our region through its “hidden heroes”, featuring original songs and a score rooted in North Eastern musical traditions.
The finished production was performed over two nights at Durham Cathedral, bringing together our schools and communities for a major celebration of North Eastern identity, creativity and culture.
Faith Walks: Walks for Joy
The next phase of Journeys of Hope used elements of Gaudete: A Mass Setting to spark conversations about faith across schools, parishes and communities.
This included parish-based Faith Walks: Walks for Joy, giving people time and space to reflect on what faith means to them.
JOY in My Heart
The project concluded with JOY in My Heart at Rainton Arena — a celebratory finale made possible by the contributions of pupils, staff, parishioners and community members from across the Trust.
Watch the Highlights
Explore two of the major creative projects from Journeys of Hope.
Journeys of Hope celebrated what can be achieved when our pupils, staff, parishes and local communities come together through creativity, faith and a shared sense of belonging.