Educational visits are a central part of the work of Hereford Cathedral. They welcome students from Key Stage 1 up to Sixth Form and offer tailored activities such as historical tours, religious tours and workshops linked to specific areas of the curriculum. Over the past year, the cathedral learning department has gone from strength to strength, with this year looking to be one of the busiest in terms of school visit bookings.
We spoke to William Talbot-Ponsonby, Head of Schools and Family Learning at Hereford Cathedral, about how the new LOtC Quality Badge application process allowed him to re-evaluate and improve their learning offer.
All in the detail
Following a review of the LOtC Quality Badge, CLOtC took the decision to make the application process even more rigorous and detailed for all of their applicants, including those offering everyday risk activities. The improved application process provides more support and guidance so that providers can feel confident in their policies and procedures.
When Hereford Cathedral started their renewal application this year, they noticed the difference straight away. Although at first the application seemed daunting and time consuming, it turned out to be hugely rewarding and helpful.
“It was one of the best things I had done, and it was needed to force me to operate more coherently and plan more strategically. The new system gave me the impetus to carve out the time and focus on the process, ensuring that our policies were up to date and other members of staff were engaged and confident in their responsibilities.
The application process required me to check that we were always linking back to the LOtC Quality Badge framework. This led me to carry out a website review and update the information on our website, as well as writing a schools leaflet. This added detail and improved communication with schools resulted in a smoother booking process and more interest in our school programmes.”
Communication is key
William also noted that the LOtC Quality Badge renewal process made him question different aspects of the information they offer to schools, including the post-visit evaluation. This led him to put further measures in place, including closer monitoring of volunteers who run learning activities, and following up on feedback from schools which helped them continue to build relationships after the schools visit.
“Going through the process provided a great opportunity for us to re-evaluate our offer and communication with schools. We have introduced a number of new workshops, and overhauled the information we provide to schools in advance of and after their visit. Following this, we have had a record breaking autumn term with more visits than ever before, on a wider range of subjects. Feedback has been overwhelmingly positive with many schools already planning their next visit!”
