South Wales Mining: An Animated History
This month, 40 pupils across all key stages have embarked on a yearlong animation adventure. With the aid of Heritage Lottery funding, they have been given the opportunity to create their own animated documentary using the latest technology. The group has been tasked with researching and writing their own historically accurate script and in conjunction with professional animators Gritty Realism, have been learning how to create a hand-drawn stop motion film.
Earlier this year, pupils took a stroll back in time as they delved into the depths of the Rhondda Heritage Park mine. Led by retired miner Anthony Fidler, the tour gave pupils a chance to experience working conditions, adding depth to their documentary and giving them an experience they will never forget. With over 1000 photographs taken on the day, pupils sourced an array of information which helped them to build up their story of days gone by. They had opportunities to experience what it was like to be a miner, and used this information to piece together their storyline.
Back at school, the pupils have been collating their information and designing their own scenes and characters. Over the next year their aim is to create a short documentary that will be exhibited at various museums and heritage sites. They will now begin to build up their unique story, retelling their mining heritage and showcasing it to the world.
We look forward to the coming months where pupils will have further chances to explore their heritage, visiting museums and historical sites, and conducting interviews with those who lived through such times.
