As the world’s first Children’s Capital of Culture in 2025, Rotherham has been redefining how creativity, civic purpose and collaboration can be shaped by children and young people. Now this two-day conference, planned with children and young people from Rotherham, will reflect on the lessons learned from Children’s Capital of Culture, sharing ideas, tools and real stories of co-creation with young people.
Leanne Buchan, Head of Creative Programming and Engagement at Rotherham Council, said: “The conference is ultimately about showing how younger generations can help shape the future of where they live, work and study. It’s about listening to them so we can support their interests and ambitions. This unique conference will share learning and best practice from the landmark Children’s Capital of Culture placemaking and systems change project, so others can put these learnings into action.”
Highlights of the conference include panel discussions, Q&A sessions, creative workshops, visits to local cultural venues, and legacy announcements outlining next steps for the Children’s Capital of Culture programme.
The conference, backed by public funding from Arts Council England and the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, is designed for cultural leaders, educators, urban planners, community organisers, local government colleagues, youth workers, and others interested in forward-thinking approaches to participation, place-making, and inclusive creativity.
“At its core, Rotherham’s Children’s Capital of Culture was about listening to and empowering children and young people to take charge of their own future. We learned that when young people are placed at the centre of cultural decision-making, we all benefit from their creativity, curiosity and bold ideas,” adds Sarah Christie, Programme Manager for Children’s Capital of Culture.
Pete Massey, Director, Yorkshire and the Humber, Arts Council England, said: “Children and young people have been at the heart of Rotherham’s Children’s Capital of Culture from its early inception, throughout its programming and beyond. It is fantastic to see children and young people are once again being empowered to shape the legacy of their year of culture through Rotherham Reimagined: The Children’s Capital of Culture Conference. The conference will not only cement the legacy of Rotherham’s year as Children’s Capital of Culture but also the role children and young people have in driving change through culture.”
The conference takes place across venues in Rotherham town centre and includes opportunities to visit places that have played key roles in the Children’s Capital of Culture programme. Participation is free or “pay what you can” to support continued opportunities for young people.
Children’s Capital of Culture website
Images: Children’s Capital of Culture
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