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Matthew Harper-Duffy

@matthewharperduffy.bsky.social
107 followers 246 following 127 posts

Primary teacher and founder of Local History Hub. Building a grassroots network for sharing local stories, ideas, and place-based learning in schools.

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Matthew Harper-Duffy @matthewharperduffy.bsky.social · 7h
I don't normally wade into this stuff, but can we please drop the charade? Laura Trott (shadow ed sec) has promised to “keep political activism out of the classroom”, alongside claims about children being taught that Britain is racist. I'd genuinely love to know which primary schools are doing this.
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Local History Hub @localhistoryhub.bsky.social · 01/10/2026
Local History Hubs are meeting across the country this autumn! Informal, teacher-led spaces bringing together schools, heritage organisations and local partners to talk local history, place and belonging. Here’s what’s coming up before Christmas 👇
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Matthew Harper-Duffy @matthewharperduffy.bsky.social · 30/09/2026
Interesting to hear Lisa Nandy confirm that universal free entry to England's national museums will remain. She talked about museums reminding us of our shared history and helping people step beyond the confines of their own lives. I really like that framing.
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Matthew Harper-Duffy @matthewharperduffy.bsky.social · 23/09/2026
Really interested in Dawn Airey's suggestion that children's access to arts and culture “should almost be a human right”. I think that's a really useful way of framing it.
theguardian.com
‘I want us to be loud’: Arts Council England’s new chair aims to reconnect young people with culture
In first interview since starting job – and after visiting school where arts are central – Dawn Airey says she wants to fix ‘shocking’ lack of access
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Matthew Harper-Duffy @matthewharperduffy.bsky.social · 21/09/2026
What stories are waiting to be discovered on your school’s doorstep? Local History Day returns on Wednesday 21 April 2027. Explore local places, people and stories - and help children develop a stronger sense of place and belonging. 🔗 www.localhistoryhub.org.uk/local-histor... #LocalHistoryDay
localhistoryhub.org.uk
Local History Day | Grassroots, teacher-led and rooted in belonging — Local History Hub
Join Local History Day 2026 to connect communities, inspire students, and celebrate stories close to home through educational events and heritage partnerships across the UK.
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Matthew Harper-Duffy @matthewharperduffy.bsky.social · 16/09/2026
It's interesting how often the word ‘belonging’ is appearing in education policy at the moment. I'm very pleased it is. This piece from @salforduni.bsky.social on building belonging in divided communities caught my eye for exactly that reason. www.salford.ac.uk/news/educati...
salford.ac.uk
Education to play a vital role in building belonging in divided communities
The University of Salford, Department for Education and National Union of Students are partnering to develop a national Community Cohesion Framework for students at colleges, universities and in stude...
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Matthew Harper-Duffy @matthewharperduffy.bsky.social · 09/09/2026
Interesting to see this develop following the White Working Class Educational Outcomes Inquiry earlier this year. Supporting particular groups doesn't have to mean pitting children against each other. www.theguardian.com/inequality/2...
theguardian.com
Ministers to put white working-class people in UK at heart of new equalities unit
Bridget Phillipson to announce creation of unit which will make class a key part of its equalities agenda
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Matthew Harper-Duffy @matthewharperduffy.bsky.social · 04/09/2026
A new academic year always feels like a good time to reset a little. A few principles I'll be trying to keep at the front of my mind this year, both in my classroom and through @localhistoryhub.bsky.social
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Matthew Harper-Duffy @matthewharperduffy.bsky.social · 26/08/2026
I spotted an interesting line in the Government's new guidance for communities developing their 10-year Pride in Place plans. They're encouraged to think about their area's: "geography; history; identity; and story so far." I like that.
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Local History Hub @localhistoryhub.bsky.social · 10/08/2026
June & July were an important couple of months for Local History Hub. We announced six new hubs: Mid Hampshire Register interest: forms.cloud.microsoft/e/epttuwx5vn Grantham & South West Lincolnshire Register interest: forms.cloud.microsoft/e/e2eeub4YCt
forms.cloud.microsoft
Microsoft Forms
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Matthew Harper-Duffy @matthewharperduffy.bsky.social · 05/08/2026
I'm sure many primary colleagues will be nodding along to today's BBC article on children's play. Giving children more opportunities to play outdoors, build independence and spend time with friends is hard to argue against. I really hope the Government pursues it as a genuine long-term strategy.
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Matthew Harper-Duffy @matthewharperduffy.bsky.social · 21/07/2026
It's always interesting to see a new Prime Minister come into office. It seems to happen more and more these days... I'll admit I was listening out for any mention of belonging or pride in place. Occupational hazard, I suppose.
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Local History Hub @localhistoryhub.bsky.social · 15/07/2026
Some exciting news! Our founder, @matthewharperduffy.bsky.social, has been awarded funding through @shinetrust.org.uk's Let Teachers SHINE programme to help grow Local History Hub.
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Matthew Harper-Duffy @matthewharperduffy.bsky.social · 10/07/2026
We're delighted to launch Local History Hub Stroud, the latest addition to our growing teacher-led network. Supported by Tony Chalk (Stroud District Council), the hub will connect schools, heritage organisations, and community partners through place-based history.
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Matthew Harper-Duffy @matthewharperduffy.bsky.social · 02/07/2026
“White working-class children failed by education system, says inquiry.” Headlines are there to grab attention and inevitably simplify. But having started reading the report, it’s a far more thoughtful and nuanced piece of work than a single headline can convey
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Matthew Harper-Duffy @matthewharperduffy.bsky.social · 29/06/2026
The debate around devolution isn’t just about where decisions are made. It’s also about whether people feel the place they live matters. There are obvious political and economic dimensions to that. But I think there’s an educational one too.
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Matthew Harper-Duffy @matthewharperduffy.bsky.social · 21/06/2026
If you follow politics, the news is full of talk about the need for big change. Whether you agree with it or not, there is clearly an appetite for it. Many people feel that something isn't working and that the answer lies in doing things differently.
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Matthew Harper-Duffy @matthewharperduffy.bsky.social · 17/06/2026
Watching coverage of this week's by-elections, I've been struck by how many people seem to feel that their area only matters when it becomes part of a national political story. Whether those interviews are representative or not, it's an interesting reflection of something deeper.
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Matthew Harper-Duffy @matthewharperduffy.bsky.social · 10/06/2026
Been thinking a lot about cynefin in the Curriculum for Wales recently. It raises a question: why doesn't England have something similar?
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Local History Hub @localhistoryhub.bsky.social · 10/06/2026
We've launched Local History Hub Mid Hampshire. We're looking for schools, heritage organisations and community partners to help shape the hub, and a volunteer Schools Hub Lead. Get involved: forms.office.com/e/epttuwx5vn Teacher-led, grassroots, and rooted in belonging. #LocalHistory #Hampshire
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Local History Hub @localhistoryhub.bsky.social · 23/04/2026
A thank you to everyone who took part in Local History Day 2026. Great to see schools and partners across the UK exploring local stories in ways that reflect their communities. We’ll be sharing examples over the coming weeks. #LocalHistoryDay #TeacherLed
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Local History Hub @localhistoryhub.bsky.social · 27/04/2026
We’ve really enjoyed seeing Local History Day activity shared from across the country.
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Local History Hub @localhistoryhub.bsky.social · 29/04/2026
Across England and Wales, Local History Hub is growing. Following a brilliant Local History Day 2026, our focus now turns to building towards 2027 and continuing to share great practice across our hubs. Teacher-led. Grassroots. Rooted in belonging.
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Local History Hub @localhistoryhub.bsky.social · 30/04/2026
We’re looking to strengthen safeguarding at board level as Local History Hub continues to grow. We’re inviting expressions of interest for a Director of Safeguarding (voluntary) to join our Operational Board.
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Local History Hub @localhistoryhub.bsky.social · 01/05/2026
Launching Local History Hub Essex - our first hub in the East of England. Led by Julie Pugh (English Heritage), the hub connects schools and heritage partners to explore local history and strengthen place and belonging. Get involved (link in bio). #LocalHistoryHub #Essex
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Local History Hub @localhistoryhub.bsky.social · 05/05/2026
Welcoming Local History Hub Rotherham to our growing teacher-led network. Led by Ian Blakesley, the hub connects schools and heritage organisations to explore local history and strengthen place and belonging. Get involved via our Expression of Interest form (link in bio). #LocalHistoryHub #Rotherham
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Local History Hub @localhistoryhub.bsky.social · 07/05/2026
April was an important month for Local History Hub, centred around the first nationwide celebration of Local History Day on 22nd April.
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Local History Hub @localhistoryhub.bsky.social · 08/05/2026
Launching Local History Hub Surrey - part of our growing teacher-led network connecting schools, museums, and heritage organisations. The hub will support children in exploring the stories that shape Surrey. Get involved: forms.cloud.microsoft/e/6j2vcNM5As #LocalHistoryHub #Surrey
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Local History Hub @localhistoryhub.bsky.social · 11/05/2026
We’re excited to announce the launch of Local History Hub West Northumberland. Teacher-led, grassroots, and rooted in belonging. If you’re based in West Northumberland please complete the expression of interest form to get involved: forms.cloud.microsoft/e/DFEbC8whyP #LocalHistory #Northumberland
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Local History Hub @localhistoryhub.bsky.social · 13/05/2026
Good luck to all teachers navigating exam season! This point in the school year can feel relentless. We hope the next few weeks go smoothly and that, when it’s all over, you get the chance to properly rest and prioritise some self-care too. #Education #Teachers #LocalHistory
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Local History Hub @localhistoryhub.bsky.social · 20/05/2026
Local History Hub continues to grow across England & Wales, connecting schools with local heritage through teacher-led, grassroots collaboration. As we look ahead to #LocalHistoryDay 2027, we’re excited to keep building practical local partnerships. #LocalHistoryHub
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Migration Museum @migrationmuseum.org · 22/04/2026
We are proud to support @localhistoryhub.bsky.social's #LocalHistoryDay Our Learning Manager Tia Shah explores why teaching local history is a great way of engaging young people on migration – and highlighting some digital resources to get you started: www.migrationmuseum.org/why-teaching...
migrationmuseum.org
Why teaching about local history matters
The Migration Museum is proud to support the Local History Hub’s first ‘Local History Day’ for schools. A day for young people to explore the people, places, stories and objects connected to their loc...
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Inside Croydon @insidecroydon.bsky.social · 19/04/2026
History of Kenley Airfield, free talk, East Surrey Museum, Apr 22 insidecroydon.com/2026/04/19/h... #Croydon #Kenley #Caterham #History @localhistoryhub.bsky.social
insidecroydon.com
History of Kenley Airfield, free talk, East Surrey Museum, Apr 22
C O M M U N I T Y A D V E R T I S E M E N T
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The Sand House @sandhousedoncaster.bsky.social · 22/04/2026
We at The Sand House Charity are pleased to have signed up to @localhistoryhub.bsky.social recently and to acknowledge that today is #LocalHistoryDay We wish everyone a successful and enjoyable day and look forward to helping to spread the Sand House story to schools. www.thesandhouse.org.uk
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Local History Hub @localhistoryhub.bsky.social · 22/04/2026
Today is Local History Day 2026. Schools across the UK are exploring local people, places and stories through classroom work, assemblies and links with heritage sites. Taking part today or in the coming weeks? Use #LocalHistoryDay and tag us so we can share. #LocalHistory #TeacherLed
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Matthew Harper-Duffy @matthewharperduffy.bsky.social · 16/03/2026
Local History Day 2026 is fast approaching. Schools across the UK are starting to plan activities exploring the stories of their local area. However big or small the activity, it all helps pupils connect with the places they live. 📚 Free resources available 🔗 Link in bio #LocalHistoryDay #TeacherLed
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Matthew Harper-Duffy @matthewharperduffy.bsky.social · 09/03/2026
Origin Stories is the gift that keeps giving. The episode on “15 Minute Cities” is a real joy. At 7 minutes 30 seconds in, @iandunt.bsky.social starts extolling the power of the word “local”. I swooned so hard I nearly crashed my car (which could have been ironic/fitting, given the topic).
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Dan Lyndon-Cohen @danlyndon.bsky.social · 09/03/2026
We will have 2 presentations from our teacher practitioners @matthewharperduffy.bsky.social and Victoria Henshaw and Marnie will be delivering a keynote drawing from her book, Artificial Historians. Email d.lyndon-cohen@leedstrinity.ac.uk to register for your place
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Matthew Harper-Duffy @matthewharperduffy.bsky.social · 02/03/2026
Looking forward to joining the panel at Heritage Day 2026 on 4th March. I’m really pleased to be part of the Heritage Connects conversation and to share a bit about Local History Hub. Thanks to @heritagealliance.bsky.social for bringing the sector together. If you’re there, I’d love to say hello.
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Dan Lyndon-Cohen @danlyndon.bsky.social · 16/02/2026
Marnie will be joined by @matthewharperduffy.bsky.social and Victoria Henshaw to share the work they have been collaborating on, and we will have plenty of time to talk through these fascinating and complex questions. Both events are FREE, to register just email d.lyndon-cohen@leedstrinity.ac.uk
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Local History Hub @localhistoryhub.bsky.social · 11/02/2026
The response to Local History Day 2026 has been fantastic. From single classes to whole schools, academy trusts and heritage partners - you’re all welcome to take part, hub member or not. 📚 Free resources ℹ️ General info sessions 🔗 Find both via the link in our bio #LocalHistoryDay #LocalHistory
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Local History Hub @localhistoryhub.bsky.social · 12/12/2025
Local History Day will take place on Wednesday 22 April 2026. Schools across the UK are invited to take part using a free set of resources designed with teachers and for teachers.
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Local History Hub @localhistoryhub.bsky.social · 15/12/2025
This winter we’re running free online info sessions about Local History Hub. Over 200 people have already signed up. A great chance to hear how our hubs work and how you can get involved. Teachers, school leaders & heritage organisations welcome. 👉 forms.office.com/e/NjM6T0QBuu
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Local History Hub @localhistoryhub.bsky.social · 05/01/2026
Happy New Year from Local History Hub 🎉 As the year begins, we’re thinking of all the teachers preparing for the new term - best of luck back in the classroom. The same to heritage professionals returning to busy sites, archives and programmes.
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Local History Hub @localhistoryhub.bsky.social · 08/12/2025
We’re excited to announce a brand-new Local History Hub for North Tyneside, supported by @northeastmuseums.bsky.social. This marks an important expansion of our work across the North East, joining our growing network of Tees Valley hubs.
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Local History Hub @localhistoryhub.bsky.social · 05/12/2025
We’re excited to launch Local History Hub Warrington, supported by Culture Warrington. The hub will help schools, heritage partners, and community groups explore and share the stories that shape Warrington’s identity.
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Local History Hub @localhistoryhub.bsky.social · 27/11/2025
We’re pleased to share that Local History Hub is featured in the latest Local History News from @balhnews.bsky.social Read the piece here: www.balh.org.uk/publication-... More updates coming soon as we prepare the next wave of hubs for 2026.
balh.org.uk
Local History News Number 157 November 2025 | | Local History News | British Association For Local History
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Local History Hub @localhistoryhub.bsky.social · 24/11/2025
This winter, Local History Hub is running free online info sessions for teachers, school leaders, academy trusts, local authorities and heritage organisations across the UK. More than 175 people have taken part so far. ❤️ Reserve your place: forms.office.com/e/NjM6T0QBuu
lnkd.in
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Local History Hub @localhistoryhub.bsky.social · 19/11/2025
This winter, Local History Hub is hosting free online info sessions for teachers, schools, trusts, LAs and heritage teams. 150+ joined in autumn. Learn how we support teachers and build partnerships for new Hubs in 2026. Reserve your place: forms.office.com/e/NjM6T0QBuu
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