We had the pleasure of welcoming the Right Reverend Lynne Cullens, Bishop of Barking to the college- alongside LDE UTC Director Chris Beales and Director of Chelmsford Diocese Education Trust Ellen Kemp- for a tour of a working day and an insight into the Pectoral Cross she proudly wears as a member of the clergy; designed and made by LDE UTC’s Art and Engineering learners.
| A pectoral cross (from the Latin pectoralis, "of the chest") is a cross that is worn on the chest, usually suspended from the neck by a cord or chain. It is a special indicator of position worn by bishops. |
The Pectoral Cross Employer Led Project challenged our Art learners to incorporate Bishop Lynne's passions, interests and background into their cross designs; the Engineering learners were then tasked to bring these designs into physical realisation. Learners had the opportunity to work collaboratively across two different subjects, experience the purpose of many of the skills they learn on the curriculum and become a part of the Diocese of Chelmsford’s history.
Not only did this project have a lasting impact on our learners, but Bishop Lynne also expressed how much she loved the design. The bishop had the chance to talk with class teachers Ishai (Art) and Mark (Engineering), as well as art learners Maya and Temi about the designing and creation process.
Reflecting on the ELP and meeting Bishop Lynne, Temi shares: 'The project was interesting because it gave me insight into what jewellers have to think about when designing and making something significant. It was also rewarding that the designs I made held a meaning behind them. I found meeting the reverend to be engaging because we got to hear what she thought about the all the pectoral cross designs she had to choose between. She was really kind and interesting to talk with.’
| 'I have been involved with this UTC since it started and every time I visit I am amazed by the commitment of the staff, the enthusiasm of the learners and the achievement of this college.' - Chris Beales, founder member of the LDE UTC Board and representative of the Diocese of Chelmsford |
It was an honour to see that those who have contributed so much to our college and local community have left the college inspired by the progress our learners have been making.
'It was lovely to finally meet Bishop Lynne in person, having worked with her through our Employer Led Project, and for her to meet the learners and staff who created her Pectoral Cross. It is surprising where opportunities can arise from, this one being with Dioceses and our Art and Engineering staff and learners which has resulted in a life-long memory for us all.' - Geoffrey Fowler, CEO and Principal.
