QE CONNECT Programme 2026-27 Connecting Communities Through Shared Experiences
Bringing schools together to learn, collaborate and grow
Connecting Communities Through Shared Experiences
QE
Contents About QE Connect Page 3 | Welcome to QE Connect Page 4 | Programme Aims Page 5 | Key Information QE Connect Events Arts & Culture Page 6 | Sleeping Beauty: A QE Pantomime Page 9 | We Will Rock You: A QE Musical Wider Life & Future Skills Page 7 | Minecraft Meets AI: The Great Maze Build Page 8 | Easter Bath Bomb Challenge: A QE STEAM Challenge Nature, Outdoor & Adventure Page 10 | QE Forest School Sport & Physical Activity Page 11 | Sport and Performing Arts Summer Fun Day Civic Engagement Page 12 | Race for Life at QE Pages 13-15 | Frequently Asked Questions Further Opportunities for Staff, Pupils and Families Page 16 | QE Training Academy Page 17 | Camp QE Page 18 | QE Sport and Multi-Activity Camps Page 19 | King’s Academy for Performing Arts
Bringing schools together to learn, collaborate and grow
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Connecting Communities Through Shared Experiences
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Welcome to QE Connect
At Queen Ethelburga's, QE Connect creates opportunities for schools to come together through shared experiences that inspire learning, develop new skills and strengthen community connections. Through a diverse programme of activities, events and projects, pupils and staff from across our network are encouraged to learn from one another and broaden their horizons beyond the classroom. Inspired by our enrichment aim, "To foster a spirit of adventure and discovery", QE Connect encourages children and young people to explore new interests, develop valuable skills and grow in confidence. Whether pupils are attending live performances, tackling STEAM challenges, exploring emerging technologies or supporting charitable causes, each event is designed to provide meaningful opportunities for learning, collaboration and personal growth. Our aim is for all participating pupils to develop confidence, leadership and interpersonal skills whilst contributing to a strong, supportive and connected community. Over 1,500 pupils have already taken part in QE Connect activities, building relationships and gaining new experiences through a diverse programme of enrichment opportunities. QE Connect complements schools' existing enrichment provision by offering experiences across a range of areas, including: Arts & Culture Sport & Physical Activity Civic Engagement Wider Life & Future Skills Nature, Outdoor & Adventure Through opportunities spanning the arts, sport, STEAM, digital innovation and community engagement, pupils are encouraged to develop curiosity, resilience, collaboration and skills for the future. We are excited to continue growing our network and welcoming both new and returning schools to another year of learning, creativity and shared experiences. We look forward to welcoming you to a QE Connect event soon!
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What are the aims of the QE Connect Programme? ENRICH
The experiences of children and young people beyond the classroom whilst encouraging a deeper understanding of each other, their community and the world in which they live.
ENHANCE The physical, mental and social wellbeing of children and young people by inspiring curiosity, collaboration, resilience and leadership through shared experiences and challenges.
DEVELOP The aptitude, skills and aspirations of children and young people by providing access to specialist facilities, expert guidance and opportunities to learn alongside peers from other schools.
NURTURE A caring and inclusive community where children and young people develop meaningful connections, support one another and make a positive impact on their local community and wider society.
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Key Information
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All QE Connect events featured on pages 6-12 are free of charge. Transport may be available free of charge, subject to the routes requested and vehicle and driver availability. Full event details including risk assessments will be shared before each event. Please see our FAQ on pages 13-15 for more information. Further opportunities can be found on pages 16–19. We encourage you to share these with staff and families who may be interested.
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ARTS & C
ULTURE
the Sleeping Beauty: A QE Pantomime Wednesday 18 November 2026 13:00-15:00
Year 1-6
Due to popular demand, the QE pantomime tradition continues! Join us for Sleeping Beauty, this year's QE Pantomime, packed with enchanting characters, audience participation, laughter and spectacular surprises! Pupils will experience the excitement of live theatre as this muchloved fairy tale is brought to life by QE's talented student performers. Expect a memorable afternoon of magic, mayhem and malevolence.
HOW TO BOOK To join us for Sleeping Beauty: A QE Pantomime, please submit a booking request form using this link or by scanning the QR code here. Our QE Connect Team will be in touch with your lead teacher to discuss your booking request.
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TURE SKILLS WIDER LIFE & FU
Minecraft Meets AI: The Great Maze Build Friday 4 December 2026 10:00-15:00
Year 5-6
Do your pupils enjoy Minecraft? At this exciting event, we will use it to explore the world of Artificial Intelligence! Working in teams with pupils from other schools, participants will design and build their own Minecraft maze adventure, using AI tools to help generate ideas, storylines and creative solutions. Guided by QE staff and student leaders, pupils will discover how AI can support creativity, collaboration and problem-solving whilst developing their digital skills in a fun and engaging challenge.
HOW TO BOOK To join us for Minecraft Meets AI: The Great Maze Build, please submit a booking request form using this link or by scanning the QR code here. Our QE Connect Team will be in touch with your lead teacher to discuss your booking request.
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ILLS UTURE SK F & E IF L WIDER
Easter Bath Bomb Challenge: A QE STEAM Challenge Tuesday 16 March 2027 10:00-15:00
Year 4-6
With guidance from our Science Department, pupils will test their skills and knowledge in Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics (STEAM) to create their own Easter themed bath bombs. Alongside a Chemistry Masterclass, pupils will discover the science behind their bath bombs, whilst getting into the Easter spirit!
HOW TO BOOK To join us for Easter Bath Bomb Challenge: A QE STEAM Challenge, please submit a booking request form using this link or by scanning the QR code here. Our QE Connect Team will be in touch with your lead teacher to discuss your booking request.
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LTURE U C & ARTS
We Will Rock You: A QE Musical Wednesday 14 April 2027 13:00-15:00
Year 5-6
Step into the electrifying world of We Will Rock You: School Edition, this year's QE Musical, featuring the unforgettable songs of Queen in our on-site professional venue: The King's Theatre. Set in a future where live music is forbidden, this high-energy adventure follows a group of rebels determined to rediscover the power of rock. Packed with iconic anthems, spectacular performances from our student cast and plenty of humour, the show celebrates creativity, individuality and self-expression.
HOW TO BOOK To join us for We Will Rock You: A QE Musical, please submit a booking request form using this link or by scanning the QR code here. Our QE Connect Team will be in touch with your lead teacher to discuss your booking request.
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OOR & NATURE, OUTD
ADVENTURE
QE Forest School Tuesday 18 May 2027 OR Tuesday 25 May 2027 (1 date per school) 10:00-12:00
Reception-Year 5
Discover the natural world through a hands-on QE Forest School experience led by trained Forest School practitioners within QE's dedicated Forest School woodland environment. Pupils will take part in practical outdoor activities that encourage exploration, creativity, teamwork and resilience, whilst developing confidence and independence through child-led learning. Through nature-based challenges, environmental discovery and immersive outdoor experiences, pupils will build problem-solving skills, connect with the natural world and gain a deeper appreciation of the benefits of outdoor learning.
HOW TO BOOK To join us for one of our QE Forest School events, please submit a booking request form using this link or by scanning the QR code here. Our QE Connect Team will be in touch with your lead teacher to discuss your booking request.
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ICAL ACTIVITY SPORT & PHYS
Sport and Performing Arts Summer Fun Day Thursday 17 June 2027 10:00-15:00
Year 5-6
Enjoy a fantastic day of sport, creativity and performance at QE's Sport and Performing Arts Summer Fun Day. Pupils will take part in development workshops and games in tennis and cricket, led by QE's specialist sports staff. Following a picnic lunch, pupils will have the opportunity to watch our Middle School production of Dracula. Combining physical activity, teamwork and the performing arts, this fun-filled day offers something for everyone.
HOW TO BOOK To join us for our Sport and Performing Arts Summer Fun Day, please submit a booking request form using this link or by scanning the QR code here. Our QE Connect Team will be in touch with your lead teacher to discuss your booking request.
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ENT CIVIC ENGAGEM
Race for Life at QE Friday 25 June 2027 Morning Event
Year 5-6
Join QE pupils and staff and schools from across our network for our annual on-site Race for Life, raising money for Cancer Research UK. Participants will come together to run, jog or walk the course, celebrating determination, teamwork and community spirit whilst supporting an important cause. Participants can take part in either a 2.5km or 5km route on a clearly marked two-loop course. Schools will fundraise collectively through a shared JustGiving page, helping to make a meaningful contribution to life-saving cancer research. HOW TO BOOK To join us for our Race for Life event, please submit a booking request form using this link or by scanning the QR code here. Our QE Connect Team will be in touch with your lead teacher to discuss your booking request.
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Frequently Asked Questions Where do the events take place? Queen Ethelburga's Collegiate Thorpe Underwood Estate York YO26 9SS
How much do the events cost? All events featured within the QE Connect Programme are provided free of charge. There is a cost to the additional opportunities featured such as QE Training Academy courses, Camp QE, our QE Sport and Multi-Activity Camps and King’s Academy for Performing Arts. Is transport provided? This academic year, subject to availability, we are delighted to offer a free of charge pick-up and drop-off service for schools attending our QE Connect events. If you require assistance with transport, please indicate this on the booking request form. Please note that transport cannot be guaranteed and will be allocated based on the routes requested and driver and vehicle availability. Our QE Connect Team will be in touch approximately 4-6 weeks before the event to confirm whether we are able to provide transport for your booking request.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is lunch provided? Some events will require visiting pupils and staff to bring a packed lunch, whilst other events will include lunch in one of our on-site dining halls. The arrangement for lunch will be confirmed by the QE Connect Team ahead of each event. Refreshments and snacks may be provided for some events, so we ask that any dietary requirements or allergy information are declared on the booking request form.
Are event places guaranteed? Please kindly add the relevant event to your school calendar when submitting your booking request. Whilst we endeavour to accommodate all requests, places are limited and demand for some events may exceed capacity, particularly when transport is requested. Where this occurs, the QE Connect Team will seek to ensure opportunities are distributed fairly across our network of schools. The QE Connect Team will contact schools approximately 4-6 weeks prior to the event to confirm attendance numbers, transport arrangements (where applicable) and final event details.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make a change to my booking request form? Should you need to make any changes to your booking, please email QEConnect@qe.org as soon as possible.
When will final event information be shared? Closer to the event date, comprehensive pre-event information, including risk assessments and logistical details, will be shared with participating schools. We will endeavour to provide information as far in advance as possible; however, for events involving multiple schools, final information will be shared once all coordinating arrangements have been confirmed to ensure a safe and successful event. How will data from the booking request form be used? Data Protection The information we hold about you is kept to a minimum. Your data is used by us to provide QE Connect services. Data is used to process and administer bookings. Information is retained only for as long as necessary. We take the security of our systems seriously and respect your privacy rights. Questions relating to data protection may be directed to the QE Data Protection Officer via DPO@qe.org. Contact Details For any further questions regarding bookings or events, please contact: QEConnect@qe.org.
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Connecting Communities Through Shared Experiences
Opportunities for Adults working with Children As part of our commitment to building meaningful relationships across the QE Connect network, we are delighted to introduce schools and community groups to QE Training Academy, specialists in professional training and development based at Queen Ethelburga's. Whether you are looking to enhance staff wellbeing, strengthen leadership capacity or ensure compliance with statutory requirements, QE Training Academy provides Ofqual-regulated and accredited qualifications delivered by experienced professionals.
Learn, Collaborate and Grow Together Just as QE Connect brings pupils together through shared experiences, QE Training Academy provides opportunities for colleagues to develop professionally, exchange ideas and strengthen connections with others across the education sector. We look forward to welcoming QE Connect schools to our growing professional learning community. Find Out More For information about upcoming courses, opportunities and preferential rates, please scan below or email info@qetrainingacademy.org.
Learn more here
Bringing schools together to learn, collaborate and grow
www.qetrainingacademy.org
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Connecting Communities Through Shared Experiences
Camp QE All School Holidays (October, Christmas, February, Easter, May, Summer) Through Camp QE, children can experience exciting activities designed to build confidence and ensure every child feels valued. What is Camp QE? Voted “Best Holiday Camp” by Little Vikings York, Camp QE boasts amazing facilities with incredibly enthusiastic and fun Team Leaders. Engaging in fun themed activities, children overcome tasks and challenges, all created to bring out creative and imaginative problem solving! Included each day is a hot lunch, morning and afternoon snacks, and wraparound care. Activities may include: Themed team-based activities Outdoor activities; such as climbing and the bouldering wall Catering creations (hopefully the goodies make their way home!) Pool Parties and Inflatable course Creative challenges
Find Out More: campqe@qe.org www.qe.org/camp-qe
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Connecting Communities Through Shared Experiences
QE Sport and Multi-Activity Camps A Summer of Discovery, Development and Adventure Our QE Sport and Multi-Activity Summer Camps offer young people the opportunity to explore their interests, develop new skills and enjoy memorable experiences in an inspiring and supportive environment. With a range of specialist camps and activity programmes available, there is something to engage every participant. Specialist Camps for Every Interest Camps are available for students from age 5 to 17. From Football, Cricket and Esports to StageCampQE and MediCampQE, participants can immerse themselves in areas they are passionate about whilst learning from experienced coaches, tutors and industry specialists. Each programme combines practical learning, skill development and opportunities to collaborate with like-minded young people. With residential and non-residential options available across selected camps, participants can enjoy outstanding facilities, make new friendships and gain confidence through engaging activities and challenges tailored to their interests.
Find Out More For information about our QE Sport and Multi-Activity Summer Camps, please visit: www.qe.org/international-summer-school or contact shortcourses@qe.org.
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Connecting Communities Through Shared Experiences
King’s Academy for Performing Arts Develop Confidence Through Performing Arts King's Academy is QE’s Saturday morning (10:00-13:00) performing arts programme, designed for young people aged 5-11 years in the local area who want to explore acting, singing, dancing and musical theatre in a fun, supportive and professional environment.
Industry-Led Performing Arts Training Students work with experienced industry professionals to develop skills across all aspects of the performing arts, including acting, singing, dancing, comedy and stage performance. Throughout the year, participants rehearse and collaborate with fellow performers before showcasing their talents in productions in our on-site professional venue: The King's Theatre. By participating in performances and creative projects, students build confidence, communication skills, teamwork and resilience whilst developing a lifelong appreciation for the arts. Sessions are designed to be both engaging and challenging, helping every participant grow as a performer and individual. Whether students are new to the stage or already passionate about performing arts, King's Academy provides opportunities to develop skills, make friendships and gain valuable performance experience in a professional theatre environment. Find Out More For information about King's Academy or to book a free trial session, please visit: www.kingstheatreqe.org/kings-academy or contact perform@qe.org.
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