Creative children bring WWI to life

Pupils from Buckingham Primary, Halton Combined, Cottesloe School, Grange School, Royal Latin School and Akeley Wood School have been busy over the last few months putting together a film, magazine and exhibition to mark the centenary of the Great War.

A mobile exhibition displaying the film, the magazine and a variety of online resources will open to the public on Saturday at Aylesbury’s Waterside Theatre, enabling people to view the students’ work.

It will then tour to different locations, including the Aylesbury Vale District Council (AVDC) offices at the Gateway on Monday, December 1, and Buckingham’s Old Gaol on February 14 2015.

As well as giving children an opportunity to explore the impact of the First World War I on the local area and individuals, the project has also given them hands-on experience in media production and design skills.

Some of the children have been on visits to war graves, including Ypres and Arras, and have filmed their experiences.

This footage, along with interviews with local residents who have strong connections to the First World War, will be used in the commemorative film.

The project is being run by AVDC in collaboration with Community Impact Bucks and Maybe Magazine CIC and is funded through a grant from the Armed Forces Community Covenant.

AVDC cabinet member for community matters, Pam Pearce, said: “I’d urge as many people as possible to see this wonderful exhibition.

“The work of the schoolchildren helps us understand the impact World War I had on the men and boys that fought for their families and communities back home and their country.

“The poignant film the children have created really brings history to life and a tear to the eye.

“It is great to see local schools using history to promote creative learning.”

On the evening of the exhibition launch, a classical music concert will also take place at Aylesbury’s Waterside Theatre.

Aylesbury Festival Choir, Aylesbury Choral Society and Aylesbury Music Centre are coming together to perform The Armed Man by Karl Jenkins and Dona Nobis Pacem by Vaughan Williams at 7.30pm on Saturday.

The children involved in the schools project have been invited to attend.

Tickets are priced between £12 and £20, and 10 per cent of all proceeds will go to local branches of the Royal British Legion and SSAFA.

Tickets can be bought from the theatre box office or by calling 0844 8717627.

For more information visit www.aylesburyvaledc.gov.uk/arts or call 01296 585301.