As restoration continues on Folkestone’s historic Leas Lift, the project is also laying strong foundations for future generations through education. Leading that work is Petra Cox, a creative educator who has been developing and implementing the Lift’s new education packs for local schools and educators.
Petra combines a professional background in design with a PGCE in art and design, and a passion for providing inspiring creative opportunities. Having trained at RADA and worked professionally with the BBC in prop and set design, she brings a wealth of experience in devising activities that are not only engaging but also use high-quality materials to ensure participants create something they can be proud of.
Over the years, she has collaborated with museums, galleries, historic sites and schools to showcase the creative potential of heritage — making history accessible and exciting for all ages.
“The positive input and support from staff at our four partner primary schools has not only been inspiring, but invaluable in creating a range of curriculum-linked learning resources,” Petra explained. “These are resources that will be genuinely useful for teachers across Folkestone schools.”
For Petra, the Leas Lift is a perfect way to connect children with the ingenuity of the past. “The Lift is such a wonderful example of Victorian engineering and innovation,” she said. “I hope students gain an understanding of the advancements in technology during the Victorian era, and an appreciation of the creativity of Victorian engineers.”
That creativity is central to her approach. By encouraging students to explore heritage in hands-on ways, Petra believes young people can form deeper connections with where they live.
“Engaging with local heritage fosters a sense of identity, civic pride and belonging,” she explained. “The Leas Lift packs also highlight other cultural and heritage opportunities across the area, giving teachers the chance to broaden learning well beyond the classroom.”
Having run pilot sessions with schools, Petra has been struck by the affection the local community continues to show for the Lift. “From the elders I’ve met who remember riding it, to the pupils who can’t wait to get on board, the real surprise has been the level of support and excitement for its restoration,” she said.
By shaping the Lift’s education programme, Petra is helping ensure the story of this much-loved landmark lives on for years to come — not only as a piece of restored Victorian engineering, but as a source of pride, inspiration and creativity for the next generation.
