Posted on: Friday 30 January 2026
Primary school pupils have put together a time capsule to mark the 25th anniversary of Blaenavon becoming a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Blaenavon Heritage VC Primary School pupils created artwork, written reflections, and personal messages about life in Blaenavon to add to the capsule, which was buried in the school grounds.
The project was done in partnership with Blaenavon Town Council who came up with the idea, and the steel capsule was supplied local firm GOS Engineering.
Year 4 pupil Isobella said: “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”.
Fellow pupil Carter added: “I hope people enjoy looking at all the lovely things when they dig it up.”
Nikki Westwood, Eco Coordinator at Blaenavon Heritage VC Primary School, said: “Pupil voice was at the heart of this project. 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 help strengthened the pupil’s sense of place and citizenship.”
The project concluded with a celebration event at the school, where the children were recognised for the positive contribution, they have made to their community, alongside Blaenavon mayor Nathan Matthews and councillors.
Pupils also recorded a podcast with Town Councillors discussing the time‑capsule project. Listen to the podcast and find out more on the school’s website: https://bhvcprimary.com/eco-council/
Cllr Richard Clark, Executive Member for Children, Families and Education at Torfaen Council, said: “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.”
The Blaenavon World Heritage site was granted UNESCO status in December 2000 and is one of 32 UNESCO sites in the UK.
This school is now planning its next projects, which include installing mini-beast houses and a wildlife camera at nearby Charles Street Green.