Students Help Breathe New Life into Historic Newark Church

Six months into the ambitious National Lottery funded Reawakening project at St Mary Magdalene’s Church in Newark, students from Newark College are leaving a lasting legacy as they roll up their sleeves and immerse themselves in a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. This historic renovation is not only breathing new life into one of Newark’s most iconic landmarks — it’s also providing a wealth of meaningful work experience for the next generation of skilled professionals.

Since the project began in November 2024, students from a wide range of disciplines have been involved in every step of the restoration journey. From creative documentation to hands-on craftsmanship, learners are making their mark on history.

Creative Media students have taken on the role of visual storytellers, capturing each phase of the restoration through photography, video, and drone footage. Their lens offers a fresh and dynamic perspective on the transformation of this centuries-old building, with dramatic aerial views and close-ups of intricate repairs bringing the story of the church’s reawakening to life.

One of those students, final-year Level 3 Creative Media Production student Jamie Watkin-Richards, has been using his camera and drone to chart the project’s progress.

He said: “It’s really interesting — not anything I’ve done before, especially with the drone work. Flying through the building and inside is not something that many people get to do.”

While Media students capture the visual story, Carpentry & Joinery students are honing their skills by restoring traditional pews and working in the wood store, carefully de-nailing timber with precision. Furniture Making students will be designing furniture for the church’s new children’s and family area — repurposing historic pews and wood from the church. This is an elaborate process, requiring designs to be submitted to and approved by the DAC (the central Church of England board), providing excellent experience in ensuring the work is in keeping with the building. Their efforts reflect both traditional craftsmanship and valuable real-world experience that will benefit them well beyond the classroom. Meanwhile, Bricklaying students are preparing to contribute to the masonry work — adding their hands to the very fabric of this beloved church.

Penny Taylor, Head of Newark Campuses, said: “This is a truly inspiring opportunity for our students. To have such a remarkable heritage project on our doorstep — and for students to be contributing so directly to it — is incredibly special. They’re gaining relevant, hands-on experience that’s not only shaping their future careers, but also creating something that will stand the test of time.”

Anna Herbert, Heritage Interpretation and Visitor Experience Manager, added: “Contributions from Newark College have been invaluable to the Reawakening of St Mary Magdalene project so far. We have really enjoyed getting to know them over the last few months, and seeing their talent and enthusiasm produce both important documentation of the project and a physical impact on the construction works.

We are delighted to be working closely with Newark College on this project and are looking forward to seeing what their wonderful students achieve next.”

In a particularly touching gesture, students also took part in creating a time capsule — writing personal statements about their involvement, what the experience has meant to them, and their hopes for the future. These heartfelt reflections will be sealed within the church, preserved for future generations to discover.

As the Reawakening project continues to unfold, the students at Newark College can take pride in knowing they are part of something truly historic — and that their work will resonate within the walls of St Mary Magdalene’s for years to come.

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