Station art work designed and created by pupils from Ysgol Uwchradd Caergybi in Holyhead has been shortlisted for a Community Rail Award in the Involving Children and Young People category.
The station art work project, facilitated by Conwy Valley and North West Wales Coast Community Rail Partnership (CRP) and British Transport Police (BTP) and funded by Avanti West Coast, saw Year 10 pupils design and create five pieces of art, three of which were graffiti murals which are now proudly on display at Holyhead Railway Station. Graffiti artist Andy Birch, Dime One North Wales Graffiti Art Murals, supported the young people to design art work which focused on key messages around rail safety and safety in water as well as promoting mental health and tourism in Holyhead.
The project also helped breakdown existing barriers and build relationships between the young people and BTP who were in attendance during the creative sessions to explain the importance of safety at stations. Alison Barker, BTP PCSO said
It has been an absolute pleasure to work with The Conwy Valley and North West Wales Coast CRP and the students of Ysgol Uwchradd Caergybi on this project. As PCSO’s working for BTP an opportunity like this to get to know and engage with our local community is wonderful. The artwork is amazing and a credit to all who took part. We particularly enjoyed working in class with the students, getting to know them and breaking down barriers that can sometimes stand between young people and the police.
Youth Worker Sharon Bibby said
It’s been a real pleasure to work on this project. The pupils have had an amazing experience with Andy and the spray paints. New skills have been learnt whilst having fun and gaining a new qualification. We can’t wait to see our art displayed at the station.
Twenty pupils were involved in this inspiring project and each will gain a qualification for their work as part of their Prince’s Trust Community Project module.
The high-profile Community Rail Awards Ceremony will take place on Thursday 6th October at the Manchester Central Convention Complex where the winners of each category will be announced. We’ll keep you updated, wish us luck.
