From 23 – 26 May 2011 one hundred and eighty year seven pupils from Rhymney Comprehensive School, Abertysswg, took a journey on Arriva trains and local buses from Rhymney to Caerphilly Castle while recording their experiences in poetry.
Led by poet Kate Williams, the Rhymney young people aged 11-12 were encouraged to produce a vivid journey of words reflecting the communities and scenery they travelled through from Rhymney to Caerphilly Castle. Their work explored the journey itself and their experiences during the day.
The Awen Project is the name of the Cultural Olympiad celebrations for Caerphilly County Borough. This project, ‘Yr Awenydd’, is a partnership between Literature Wales, Arriva Trains and Caerphilly Arts Department. It forms the first part of an arts relay which is a major part of the Cauldrons and Furnaces element of the Cultural Olympiad celebrations in Caerphilly Castle in July 2012.
Arriva Trains Wales and Literature Wales are supporting the development of literature among young people across Wales through a series of special train rides.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for our pupils to explore the wider community. Seeing the castle from the train certainly raised the anticipation levels of the pupils. We are hoping they’ll be inspired to produce some really creative poetry.”
Caroline Jones, Head of English Rhymney Comprehensive
“An excellent trip. The train journey was a good experience and the castle helped me imagine what life was like hundreds of years ago.”
Ethan Pitt- Year 7 pupil, Rhymney Comprehensive
“I’ve never been to Caerphilly Castle before. It’s really huge with loads of interesting things to look at. The Great Hall was really grand.”
Katie Roper- Year 7 Pupil, Rhymney Comprehensive
