Meir primary pupils in film premiere

27 July 2010

Primary school children in Meir have made a film about regeneration of their community.

Ten and 11-year-olds from Crescent Primary school worked with producers and journalists to produce the film ‘Our Future Our Community’ about their area.

The film made its debut at a premiere at The Square.

Sponsored by Fenton-based Seddon Construction the 11-minute video focuses on work to regenerate the area and showcases schemes such as refurbished homes for Woodville Road, the Pinewood Crescent parking scheme and community hub The Square.  

In an intensive three-day project, the pupils played a major role in the video production and editing process, working from Longton High School’s City Learning Centre.

Headteacher David Alston said: “I was lucky to have a sneak preview of the video before the premiere and was overwhelmed by the end result. It was a unique experience for our pupils who got the chance to visit local news organisations and learn video production techniques.

“The children who took part produced work of a very high standard.  The video will serve as a great resource for the people of the area, who will be able to see how Meir is being regenerated.”

Among those interviewed in the film is Stoke-on-Trent South MP Rob Flello who commented: "In the last few decades, this city has been left behind somewhat, but when I see things like this I realise that it may be possible to use digital technology to leapfrog those lost decades and catch up with the rest of the country.

"I think the children have done a fantastic job. It's clear a lot of hard work went into this project."

RENEW programme manager Phil Brundrett, who also attended the premiere, said: "I think it is extremely important we engage with the younger generation on the work that we are doing in their community. It's about making the future of their area more real to them and involving them in what is happening."

Mark Wootton, regional manager for Seddon Construction, was also interviewed in the pupils’ film and he said: “Many of our staff live in the area and we have been involved in exciting regeneration projects such as The Square and the redevelopment of homes in Woodville Road.

“The enthusiasm of the primary school pupils was fantastic to see and it was a great opportunity to hear their views on their community.”