Heritage Programme

Helping young people understand their past and the heritage of their community helps them put their own lives into a social context. Our Heritage Programme provides young people with an invaluable insight into their community. In helping them develop a greater appreciation of their past, they develop a greater understanding of their future.

North Shields Fish Quay - Christ Church C of E Primary School

Since 1225, the Fish Quay has remained the focal point of life for the people of North Shields, and it continues to play a pivotal role in the industrial and cultural development of the region. During this project, the children researched the way that the North Shields Fish Quay, and the local fishing industry, has shaped the lives of local people over hundreds of years. They met with local residents, former fishing boat crew and local historians to investigate, for themselves, how their community has been

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From the children living in North Shields, we have a real sense of community at our school. But it has been incredibly important for them to learn more about their heritage. A lot of our students were not aware of the history of the Fish Quay, and the wealth of information that they have received has been amazing. We were so thankful to be part of Building Self-Belief's Heritage Programme.

- Emma Wake, Christ Church C of E Primary School

Consett Steelworks Project - Delves Lane Primary School

In recognition of the 40th anniversary of the closure of Consett Steelworks we delivered a project where we looked back at the whole history of the town of Consett, and the huge influence the steelworks had on the local community. We had guest speakers who talked about their lives working at the steelworks as well as inviting local people in to school to discuss the impact the closure had on the town. The children felt that the programme had given them a true appreciation of their local history and they gained a whole new sense of pride about the town where they live. 


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1950's Childhood Project - Crookhill Primary School

Our project with Crookhill Primary School explored the history of Crookhill, and we linked this to 1950’s childhoods with a close look at the culture of the town in the 1950s. Included in this was first hand accounts from local residents and a session with Clara Jones, where she described her experiences as a child of the Windrush generation. The children produced fabulous poems and artwork. 

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First World War Memorial Project - Tow Law Millennium Primary School

We had a fabulous time working with Tow Law Millennium Primary School where the children researched the names on the local World War One Memorial, and analysed a range a historical evidence, to understand the impact that the conflict had on their local community. They visited Beamish Museum and took part in workshops with the DLI Museum.  As a result of their work, the students produced a brilliant anthology of research, poetry and creative writing.  With thanks to the National Heritage Lottery Fund for their support of this project. 

If you would like to work with us on one of our programmes, please get in touch.

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Anthologies

Take a look at the fabulous anthologies that the children have produced as part of our Heritage Programme.

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