In February 2025, the Year 5 classes at Delves Lane Primary School in Consett, County Durham, took part in a project on the Consett Steelworks, forming part of our two-year Consett Heritage Project. The children learnt about the history of the steelworks and developed their understanding of the impact that the steelworks closure had, and continues to have, on the community. They interviewed Alan, a former steelworker, and began to consider the positives and negatives of the steelworks closure.
The students then created paintings and decorated a quilt under the title- 'Consett Past and Present'. Some of their designs included the Hownsgill Viaduct, Consett AFC, images of the steelworks, the red dust, and the contrast of the environment in the steelworks era compared to present.
The children then worked in groups to develop a poem, thinking about the ways that Consett Steelworks has impacted the community, both positively and negatively. Each group chose a photo relating to the Consett Steelworks, and wrote their own poems using poetic techniques. We hope you enjoy them!
Bob and Max
This poem was created by Aiden, Ava, Cody, Emmy, Lilly and Ryan.
The Steelmen
This poem was created by Alistair, Andreea, Lily and Nico.
The Last Shift
This poem was created by Emmie, Lola, Michael and Scarlett.
Self-Belief and Emotional Wellbeing / June 30th, 2026
Wellbeing and the Arts / June 30th, 2026
Stargate Pit Disaster, Crookhill Primary School / June 30th, 2026
'The Day John Dies, His Mother Cries and Cries'
This project was created to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the 1826 Stargate Pit Disaster near Ryton, Gateshead. In this poem, 15-year-old James Robson, this poem reflects on the hopes, dreams, and lost childhoods of the young boys who worked and died in the Stargate Pit Disaster.
Youth Social Action / August 24th, 2023
The Learning for Life Sensory Room Project | Building Self-Belief
Young people from Consett Academy and Learning for Life joined forces to design and equip and new sensory space. They challenged youth loneliness, broke down social barriers, built lasting friendships and engaged with local businesses. It was a fabulous project and we all loved every minute of it. The Programme was funded by the Derwent Valley AAP and supported by local businesses.
Know Your Neighbourhood Project / August 19th, 2024
Happy 40th Birthday to Rendles of Consett!
On their 40th Birthday, Building Self-Belief would like to say a huge thank you to Rendles of Consett for their excellent products, service and support they have given us over the past year, to help us deliver our Household Support Fund.