So, now we're back. Like everyone else, I'm so glad to be in my own bed, and I spent so much time in the bath this morning my fingertips went wrinkly. The festival season is over and it's now time for us to think about the successes of 2009 and begin to plan 2010.
This summer we have been to both Latitude and Leeds festivals and we have provided volunteering and internship opportunities for over 200 students and staff. About ten percent of our volunteers gained undergraduate or postgraduate credit for their hard work, many more have "hard to find" experience on their CVs but some just came because they wanted to be a part of it. Our students have done exceptionally well; exceeding expectations in all of our projects.
But, I would also like to name a few staff who have made the Festival Republic partnership what it is. Firstly, Caroline Bonser, whose integrity, hard work and attention to detail have been invaluable, secondly, Patsy Robertshaw whose stamina is legendary and without whose support (at Leeds Fest) I would have probably curled up into a ball and cried. And finally Laura Taylor who is probably the most lovely and cheery person I know and is a true professional. These three key figures drive this project forward and yet every single person is needed and makes a difference. Some of our students have also been in responsible, stressful positions and working long hours, there are too many to name but special thanks to Michael Seymour, Isla Brown, Alex Herod, Gaz Davies and the HATs managers.
Looking forward to next year we hope that the same projects in Latitude and Leeds will happen again. But I am hoping to add an extra festival to our portfolio - I'm not allowed to tell you which one - but watch this space...
Rebekka Kill
Senior Lecturer in Creativity, Enterprise and Engagement, Teaching Fellow and Enterprise Pioneer
Wednesday 2 September 2009
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Rebekka, glad to hear that Leeds was also a success. I really hope that Latitude will happen again next year and that I will be lucky enough to be a part of it.
ReplyDeleteI cannot tell you how much I enjoyed this year at Latitude, it exceeded all my expectations and continues to fill me with joy every time I remember it.
Can't wait to do it all again.
Jx
Just to reiterate what Jaye said - it's been an amazing Summer of festival involvement! Thanks SO much for the opportunities - firstly at Latitude (which despite the trips to first aid tent was magical) and then at Leeds. The Leeds project was fantastic in so many ways - as part of my MA, as a major step forward for myself creatively and professionally, and of course as a cracking weekend with a cracking bunch of people. It's made many things seem possible.
ReplyDeleteWe're lucky to have the Leeds Met/Festival Republic partnership and the hard work you and the team put in to keep it going :-)
Alex x