University announces new partnership with heritage charity

The University of Derby and the organisation which looks after Cromford Mills have joined forces to create a new partnership.

The university has penned a one-year strategic partnership agreement with the Arkwright Society, a charity that supports the economy, sustainability and development of the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site, which includes Cromford Mills.

The agreement aims to increase collaborative working and build on an existing relationship between the two organisations.

Having previously collaborated on placement experience for students studying teacher training, hosted art exhibitions of student work and collaborated on renewable energy projects, this agreement marks a significant step forward in the partnership.

Students at the university will be given opportunities to work on projects and activities that will enrich their learning experience and enhance their employability.

These range from projects on environmental sustainability, heritage research investigations, and the development of materials to support those with special educational needs and disabilities.

The Arkwright Society, meanwhile, will benefit from support in developing its heritage tourism activities, educational programme and the ongoing regeneration of Cromford Mills, which is a key part of the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site.

Matthew Day, deputy dean of the university’s College of Arts Humanities and Education, said: “As a civic university, we are committed to initiatives that make a real difference to local communities – ones that open doors to opportunities, raise aspirations and transform lives.

“We look forward to working in partnership with the Arkwright Society, using our knowledge and expertise to contribute to the development masterplan being developed by the society and providing our students with real world learning experiences in a range of sectors from tourism to heritage and education to environmental science.”

Last year, the Arkwright Society received a £198,000 grant towards the reinstatement of renewable hydro energy at Cromford Mills, as part of The Green Entrepreneurs Programme; a partnership between the University of Derby and Derbyshire County Council.

Eilis Scott, chief executive of The Arkwright Society, said: “We are delighted to be entering into a partnership with the University of Derby.

“As an educational and conservation charity, we put learning at the heart of our heritage offer and our work within the local community.

“I am excited to see how collaboration across a number of departments with students and staff alike can bring new perspectives to our engagement and education programmes.”