Holocaust educator recognised with Prime Minister’s ‘Points of Light’ award

A Shoah educator has been recognised by the Prime Minister with a Points of Light award for founding Echo Eternal, a Holocaust commemoration arts project.

Adrian Packer received the prestigious award given to outstanding volunteers who are making a change in their community and inspiring others.

He received high praise from Theresa May, who said in a letter to him: “You have enabled children of all faiths and backgrounds in Birmingham to learn about the Holocaust and play their part in ensuring that the testimony of British Holocaust survivors lives on for generations.

“You should feel very proud of the way that your innovation and creativity as an educator is helping to bring young people together in fighting all forms of hatred and prejudice and I wish you every success as the project continues to grow.”

Inspired by the testimony of survivors, Echo Eternal was launched on Holocaust Memorial Day of last  year across 12 schools in Birmingham.

With the help of an artist in residence, each school produced a creative response to the story of a Holocaust survivor.

The project also offers a series of training events in Holocaust education and works with schools to design civic pledges to counter prejudice.

Mr Packer, who is CEO of CORE Education Trust, said: “Receiving a Points of Light award from the Prime Minister is a testament to everyone’s hard work in getting us to this point.

“At the project’s heart it’s the children who are doing the most wonderful things. It has been magical to see all the schools come together.

“Our schools live and breathe collaboration, and we look for opportunities to encourage and help our students to look outwards and engage creatively with the rich diversity of our communities.”