NEWCASTLE is one of the most iconic cities in Britain.
It is famous for its industrial heritage, its bridges and its football team.
More than 800,000 people live there; thousands more visit it every year.
But headteacher Craig Heeley knows that many of the pupils at Lemington Riverside remain unaware of what’s on their doorstep.
"We may be situated in a thriving north-east city, but the cultural experiences of many of our children is limited,” he said.
That is now changing, thanks to funding from INEOS’ Forgotten Forty initiative.
The school has developed the 'Lemington Riverside Experience' – a set of cultural visits, experiences and in-school visitors that are offered to every child as part of the school curriculum.
The reason?
Craig firmly believes that experience and travel are an education in themselves.
Children should not only leave primary school with the knowledge to help them thrive at secondary school, but the cultural capital experience that means that they are not at any disadvantage to their peers
So far this year pupils have taken part in a residential at the coast, and enjoyed visits to the theatre, museums and galleries.
They have also been flag bearers at Newcastle Thunder Rugby and enjoyed a guided tour of Newcastle United’s St. James' Park stadium.
And there is more to come.
"If a child is with us from nursery to Year 6, they will experience the awe and wonder of the North East cities, coasts and countryside, as well as visiting and experiencing many of the cultural gems our region has to offer,” said Craig.