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!
A Life at the Works Cut Short
This poem was created by Aria, Bobby, Daniel, Ebony, Harvey and Layla.
The Secret of Consett Steel
This poem was created by Alisha, JJ, Leah and Roman.
Blanket of Darkness
This poem was created by Ava, Callie, Ella, Frankie and Harrison.
Youth Social Action / October 31st, 2019
Aspirations and Future Planning / October 31st, 2019
The Power of Collaboration | We need YOU!
We are thrilled to announce that we have received funding from the Derwent Valley AAP for an exciting project! Building Self-Belief CIO shall be working with young people from Consett Academy and Learning for Life to develop and design new sensory spaces at Learning for Life, a SEND provision in Consett.
Consett Heritage Project / June 15th, 2023
Alan Swinburne- Consett Heritage Podcast
Alan worked at the Steelworks for 17 years in the Technical Research Department. Over the last 20 years he has researched the History of the Steelworks given several talks about his memories of his life at the Works. He also has an extensive collection of photographs and memorabilia from the steelworks.
Aspirations and Future Planning / May 29th, 2021
North Durham Academy | Bridging the Gap Between Education and Work
Sixth Form students at North Durham Academy, Stanley, Co Durham, took part in our Bridging the Gap Between Education and Work programme. This programme is designed to enhance their employability skills, and raise their aspirations. It was a huge success!