Up-coming article…

I’m delighted that I have an article to be published about the work at Woodrow First School (see below – November 23, 2015), in the summer 2017 edition of Primary Geography. I will be sending out new leaflets about the work I can offer to schools in the new year….. It would be great to have the chance to do this kind of work again.

Looking at the tiles and thinking back on the discussions we had about the importance of shelter – it is clear to me that reflection on core human “needs” (shelter, water, air, food – and care / love – call it what you will) – is absolutely vital in education. The children have so much empathy, interest and concern – for other people, and for wildlife. When that is combined with work that develops analysis & critical thinking (along the lines of Bloom’s Taxonomy – e.g. see for one interpretation) with the ability to react – and actually do something, then there is not only the development of knowledge and understanding, but also some empowerment as well. We can make a difference – and be part of the solution, not just part of the problem.

Version 3

Film Night Success

The Isaac Button Country Potter film night proved to be a wonderful evening. Over 110 people came along, many bringing pots and stories, memories….connections. It was a real testimony to the man and his craft, graft and personality. Tales of collecting pots via tram and wheelbarrow, a specially made “button pot” where a slot allowed the purchaser to pop in a button to an otherwise sealed Button jar, the unbelievable challenges faced by those trying to save Soil Hill Pottery for posterity, the pots Isaac made for a young student to decorate for a project towards his Fine Art degree…. John Hudson gave a fascinating and inspiring talk at the end of the film – giving the perfect background and local perspective to the film and setting things in context. Given that the film is without sound-track – for those new to it – this was invaluable. And poetry too from Graham Mort. Thanks to everyone who came from far and wide.

Sadly – on an earlier walk up on Soil Hill – I saw that the kiln, was still standing when I visited last in 2015 (albeit with partial roof collapse) is now flattened. So much for “listed” status!

Isaac,

Bones under winds’ keening,

The drenched burial place

Over-cried by curlews.

 

Soil Hill

An atrocity of moorland,

Roof sagging, kiln crumbling,

Carcase that gales fast on.

 

This cider jar

Still brimming with darkness

From his touch.

 

From, A Halifax Cider Jar

by Graham Mort