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.
Consett Heritage Project / February 9th, 2024
My Dream for Consett
Ray Lonsdale’s statue of Tommy, at Seaham had a profound effect on me. Tommy, or using it’s real title of “One Minute Past Eleven” depicts a weary First World War soldier slumped and gazing ahead. Tommy represents how many troops felt when the war ended – we had ‘won’, but at what cost?
Self-Belief and Emotional Wellbeing / May 18th, 2019
The Activity Den Transformation
This is an extended version of our film outlining the transformation of The Den activity centre in Tanfield Lea. Over a three month period we held weekly sessions and made plans, for transforming this amazing space.
Benfieldside Community Garden / September 8th, 2025
Benfieldside Garden's August Update
Here is our August update about the work at Benfieldside Community Garden. There is also another layer of compressed gravel to go into the paths! With thanks to the The National Lottery Community Fund RC North East & Cumbria Region for their kind support.