In February 2025, the Year 5 classes at Delves Lane Primary School in Consett, County Durham, took part in a project on the Consett Steelworks, forming part of our two-year Consett Heritage Project. The children learnt about the history of the steelworks and developed their understanding of the impact that the steelworks closure had, and continues to have, on the community. They interviewed Alan, a former steelworker, and began to consider the positives and negatives of the steelworks closure.
The students then created paintings and decorated a quilt under the title- 'Consett Past and Present'. Some of their designs included the Hownsgill Viaduct, Consett AFC, images of the steelworks, the red dust, and the contrast of the environment in the steelworks era compared to present.
The children then worked in groups to develop a poem, thinking about the ways that Consett Steelworks has impacted the community, both positively and negatively. Each group chose a photo relating to the Consett Steelworks, and wrote their own poems using poetic techniques. We hope you enjoy them!
A Life at the Works Cut Short
This poem was created by Aria, Bobby, Daniel, Ebony, Harvey and Layla.
The Secret of Consett Steel
This poem was created by Alisha, JJ, Leah and Roman.
Blanket of Darkness
This poem was created by Ava, Callie, Ella, Frankie and Harrison.
Volunteering / December 12th, 2025
Digital Inclusion / December 12th, 2025
Lets Get Digital: Digital Unite Event
What an inspiring day at Digital Unite’s Let’s Get Digital Northeast event, held at our very own community building in Consett. Community organisations, project leaders, digital champions and learners from across County Durham and Newcastle were brought together to focus on strengthening digital motivation, confidence and skills.
Heritage / April 12th, 2024
History of Consett Q and A – Local Mysteries now Solved!
As part of Building Self-Belief’s series of events about Consett’s heritage, local Historian Brian Harrison agreed to be in the spotlight for our Consett’s History Q and A session.
Heritage / June 30th, 2026
'The Day John Dies, His Mother Cries and Cries'
This project was created to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the 1826 Stargate Pit Disaster near Ryton, Gateshead. In this poem, 15-year-old James Robson, this poem reflects on the hopes, dreams, and lost childhoods of the young boys who worked and died in the Stargate Pit Disaster.