Our incredible staff were invited to the beautiful gardens of Buckingham Palace last week in recognition of all their fantastic work on our Early Words Together programme.
Hosted by Their Majesties, the Sovereign traditionally hosts an annual garden party, an important way for members of the Royal Family to speak to a broad range of people from all walks of life, all of whom have made a positive impact in their community.
Throughout the country, a long-established network of sponsors is used to invite guests.
National Literacy Trust North East, a partner and friend of South Tyneside Family Hubs, nominated Lynn and Hayley to celebrate their work and impact in South Tyneside.
Gavin Salmon, Project Manager at National Literacy Trust North East, said: “We nominated Lynn and Hayley to attend the King’s Garden Party as heartfelt recognition of their unwavering dedication and exceptional contributions over the past 20 months to the successful delivery of Early Words Together.
“Lynn and Hayley’s commitment to improving literacy and transforming lives has been truly outstanding, and this nomination serves as a way to express our deepest appreciation for their hard work.
Since partnering up on Early Words Together, Gavin feels the communication and development of young people in the borough has improved massively. He said: “The communication and development of young people in the area have seen significant improvements as reflected in parent surveys throughout the programme.
“One of the most impactful outcomes has been the enhancement of nearly 500 children’s home learning environments, thanks to the dedication of Family Hub practitioners.
“By empowering parents with the skills and confidence to create a language-rich environment, the programme has helped children develop essential communication skills that will benefit them throughout their lives. The Early Words Together programme is actively shaping a brighter future for young people in South Tyneside.”
Reflecting on a memorable day, Lynn Ward, Family Hubs Partnership Manager for Bede, Biddick and said: “The experience was amazing, to have the honour to attend such an event is difficult to describe.
“The whole day was fabulous, being able to be in the beautiful grounds of Buckingham Palace and listening to the Waterloo Band to seeing the King and Queen. The chills listening to the National Anthem of His Majesty’s Welsh Guards, The Beefeaters were stunning and of course the delicious food. Meeting people from various backgrounds and sharing stories of why they had been invited to the event for their work in education and skills was also a key highlight.
“It makes me so proud to be recognised and it’s motivating to know that the work that is being delivered in South Tyneside is valued. To attend such an event is such an honour and a memory we will not forget.
“While Hayley and I were able to attend this event, I would not have been able to do it without the support from everyone who has been involved and committed into the delivery of the Early Words programme.
“I want to say a personal big thanks to Hayley, who has been on this journey from the start of the programme. The unwavering dedication and commitments to the programme, her hard work, perseverance are truly commendable.”
To support your child’s communication and development, check out our First Words Together & Early Words Together programmes.
Please call your local Family Hub for more information.
