Big Tick winner in 2008

Design Links - Craigroyston Community High School

Merrill Lynch Education Award

Design Links established a partnership with Craigroyston Community High School which had previously been described in the press as ‘the worst performing school in Scotland’. Through a range of activities, the aim of the partnership was to remove cultural barriers to educational success in an area of social disadvantage and in so doing engender pride in the school among staff, teachers and parents. It also aimed to encourage pupils to value their talents; raise academic and vocational attainments and improve the school’s reputation.

Processes

Design Links approached the partnership as a long-term and strategic programme which aimed to make a measurable and enduring impact on school performance while also promoting the partnership as a model of best practice. The partnership developed a marketing strategy aimed at parents, the local community, and business and political leaders to showcase pupils’ talents and achievements in the local community and beyond.

One aspect was the development of a partnership between Craigroyston and the high performing St George’s School for Girls. This enabled both pupils and staff to share knowledge, resources and expertise and take part in joint initiatives.

Craigroyston pupils were also helped to use the media and events to challenge false perceptions of young people. This included the production of a news magazine for parents and influencers and the preparation of video pod-casts showcasing school activities and achievements.

Impact

Design Links staff, and the company’s partners, donate 160 hours in the partnership
The agency has developed new skills and contacts in event management, adding an asset to its portfolio and securing £36,000 worth of contracts to create and manage mass participation events
60 youngsters from Craigroyston actively involved in new events and activities outside the school, including the celebration launch of community radio station Leith FM’s (on the occasion of its attaining a full five-year radio licence)