The King Edward VI Foundation is proud to announce that ‘Delivering Hope: The 6888 Project’ has been shortlisted as a finalist in the Social Project of the Year category at the Association for Project Management (APM) Project Management Awards 2026.
The Foundation-wide creative arts and education project honours the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, the only predominantly African American, all-female unit deployed overseas during the Second World War. Through a unique collaboration involving seven Foundation schools, creative practitioners and more than 250 pupils; the project combined dance, spoken word, visual art and curriculum design to shine a light on overlooked local and Black history.
Led by Jenny Adey, Dance Teacher at King Edward VI Northfield School for Girls, and with artistic direction from Clare Palethorpe, 'Delivering Hope' brought together pupils and staff from across the Foundation. The project balanced creative ambition with careful safeguarding and complex logistics, while fostering cross-Foundation collaboration and creating meaningful opportunities for learning and personal development.
The project culminated in a powerful performance and exhibition held at the Ruddock Performing Arts Centre, that celebrated the legacy of the 6888th Battalion and inspired pupils to engage with an important chapter of history that is often underrepresented. Alongside developing creativity and confidence, the project has left a lasting educational and cultural legacy across the Foundation.
Being recognised as a finalist in the APM Awards is a significant achievement and a testament to the dedication, passion and commitment of everyone involved in bringing 'Delivering Hope' to life.
The next stage of the awards process will see representatives from the project team deliver a virtual presentation to the judging panel in September. Winners will be announced at the APM Project Management Awards ceremony in London on 16 November 2026.
We would like to congratulate and thank all the staff, pupils, creative partners and supporters who contributed to the success of this remarkable project and wish the team the very best of luck in the final stage of judging.
