On 15 June, young people from Horizon Community College, Barnsley Youth Council, Mind the Gap, Freedom Studios, Grange College and Carlton Bolling College celebrated the sealing of the Magna Carta with performances in Barnsley and Bradford. These young people have been on a journey of discovery finding out about the history and context of the Magna Carta but also the vital role it has played in establishing the principles of freedom and justice and the development of human rights.

Horizon Community College has investigated the Magna Carta and its influence on other important historic documents such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. They have used the knowledge that they gained to create their own ‘Grand Charter’ of human rights which they signed 800 years to the day under banners depicting the key themes highlighted in their Charter.

Mind the Gap and Freedom Studios have been working with diverse groups across Bradford to help young people with and without learning disabilities to explore the context within which the Charter was forged. In sessions with HH Judge Jonathan Rose they have discussed how the Magna Carta has influenced the rule of law, and ideas of freedom and democracy. Their public commemoration event was hosted at Bradford City Hall’s Council Chambers.

More events will follow throughout the year as both schools continue their work to produce short films that will help others to find out about the Magna Carta and its importance.

If you are feeling inspired by the Magna Carta and other upcoming anniversaries then contact the Yorkshire and the Humber Development Team at yandhdevelopment@hlf.org.uk.