Young learners at Blaenavon Heritage VC Primary School have commemorated a significant local milestone by creating and interring a unique time capsule. The project marks the 25th anniversary of Blaenavon achieving UNESCO World Heritage Site status, engaging pupils in a meaningful exploration of their community's past and future.
A Collaborative Celebration of Heritage
The initiative was a partnership between the school and Blaenavon Town Council, who conceived the idea to honour this special anniversary. Local engineering firm GOS Engineering generously donated the durable steel capsule used for the project. Pupils contributed a vibrant collection of artwork, written reflections, and personal messages depicting life in contemporary Blaenavon, which were carefully placed inside before burial in the school grounds.
Pupil Voices and Creative Contributions
Year 4 pupil Isobella shared her enthusiasm, stating: "We had so much fun doing the pictures and poems to go in the time capsule. I did a picture of my favourite thing in Blaenavon." Her classmate Carter expressed his hopes for the future, adding: "I hope people enjoy looking at all the lovely things when they dig it up." These sentiments highlight the children's personal investment in creating a legacy for their community.
Educational Impact and Community Values
Nikki Westwood, Eco Coordinator at Blaenavon Heritage VC Primary School, emphasised the project's deeper educational purpose. "Pupil voice was at the heart of this project," she explained. "It not only deepened the children’s understanding of our local heritage but also encouraged them to think about sustainability, community responsibility, and the legacy they will leave for future generations. This authentic learning experience linked perfectly with the aims of our Eco Schools programme and helped strengthen the pupils' sense of place and citizenship."
Official Recognition and Future Projects
The project culminated in a celebratory event at the school, where pupils were honoured for their positive community contribution. Blaenavon Mayor Nathan Matthews and local councillors attended the ceremony. Additionally, pupils recorded a special podcast with Town Councillors discussing the time-capsule initiative, further documenting their experience.
Councillor Richard Clark, Executive Member for Children, Families and Education at Torfaen Council, praised the endeavour: "This project has given pupils a fantastic opportunity to reflect on their community, share their voices and create something meaningful that future generations will rediscover. It’s a great example of how learning and local heritage come together to enrich pupils’ experiences. And it’s a reminder that when pupils aren’t in school, they miss out — not just on learning, but on valuable opportunities like this."
Blaenavon's UNESCO Legacy and Looking Ahead
Blaenavon was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in December 2000, recognising its outstanding universal value as a landscape shaped by the iron and coal industries. It remains one of only 32 UNESCO sites across the United Kingdom. Building on this successful project, the school is now planning further environmental initiatives, including installing mini-beast houses and a wildlife camera at the nearby Charles Street Green, continuing their commitment to local ecology and community engagement.
