News
Pavilion Past project booklet/DVD released
Saturday, March 08, 2008
This booklet and film is the result of a creative digital:works project that was developed in association with Westfield Technology College, with funding from the Local Heritage Initiative. It allowed two schools to work closely together for the first time in their history. It has also helped the schools build links with educational resources in the area such as Dorset History Centre and greater links with Weymouth & Portland Borough Council.
Over an 18-month period Joe Stevens, the digital:works artist involved throughout, worked with young people, volunteers and teachers from Westfield Technology College and St Andrew's Primary School. The project saw the children interviewing local residents about their memories of the Pavilion. More than 50 children aged seven to eleven filmed the interviews themselves, which were then put on to the DVD. They also carried out practical investigations into the historic uses of the building, which was once named The Ritz, by looking at books and old newspapers.
David Sekers from the Heritage Lottery Fund said the £8,400 donation for the project was money well spent. He said: "The project hugely rewarding and really heart warming because it shows that every generation wants to find out about their roots and it is inspiring that the children were so interested in their heritage."
Local artist Joe Stevens came up with the idea for the project two years ago and said it has been thoroughly worthwhile and paid tribute to the hard work of both the children and the teaching staff. He said, “this project is a very good example of successful partnerships working. In particular the children from each school have joined forces and worked as a team.”
Inclusion co-ordinator at the college Karen Bidwell said the project will become part of a local archive for years to come. She added: "The children were really passionate about searching for important memories and also how life was in Weymouth as far back as 1908."
Nerys Watts, South West Regional Manager for the Heritage Lottery Fund said “This is yet another example of what the younger generation can achieve given the opportunity, and how the exploration of their heritage has enabled these young people to develop a greater sense of identity, and an appreciation of the diversity and breadth of their heritage, which they are sharing with a wider audience.”
If you would like to get a copy of this booklet/DVD contact Westfield Technology College on 01305 833518 or email joe@pavilionpast.org.uk.
posted by Joe @ 6:25 PM
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