The Honoutrable Premier McKeeva Bush, in conjunction with Cayman Traditional Arts, is pleased to announce the launch of a new after-school cultural programme – “Bringing Heritage to Life”. The after-school programme is comprised of three courses, spanning 12 weeks each: Seafaring & Thatch, Cuisine & Culinary Skills and Games & Entertainment. These will be offered to Years 5 & 6 students across all the districts.

“We need to ensure that every Caymanian child knows who they are and where they come from; to have a deep understanding of heritage and culture, taught through history and art traditions of the Cayman Islands,” Mr Bush said.

“This programme is necessary, and for too long we have neglected this all too important component of our curriculum. This is a programme I wanted to launch many years now. I feel the times we live in now prove critical for us to do so. We don’t want our sense of self to be lost forever.”

Chris Christian of CTA will run this innovative programme – making sure children from West Bay to East End and Cayman Brac will be able to participate in this cultural education.

“I can find no other person better suited to handing down knowledge of who we are to our youngest minds. Chris Christian is a Native Son, a celebrated local artist who has dedicated his life to the preservation of our heritage. For the last seven years and through his company Cayman Traditional Arts, Mr. Christian has taught both locals and tourists about Cayman’s soul through culture and tradition. His knowledge of where we come from is vast and he is able to display that information in an artistic and engaging format. I am proud to have him on board this pilot programme. I have no doubt with his combined talents and passion, this programme will be a success for our children.”

Over the last few years, Mr. Christian has volunteered his time at schools to teach students. In this programme, he will bring on board other local well-known artisans and historians he has worked with over the years to transfer their knowledge to the students.

“Bringing Heritage to Life” will launch this Monday, 5th September 2011 in the school hall of John A. Cumber Primary School in West Bay from 3 to 5pm.

All media are invited to attend and refreshments will be served.

For further information, please call Chris Christian at 926-0119 or e-mail [email protected].

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