Stars visit pupils in Hackney to become history detectives for the day - Hackney Gazette

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  • Colin & Shobu Kapoor With Pupils At Queensbridge Primary

    Colin & Shobu Kapoor With Pupils At Queensbridge Primary

Pupils from Hackney travelled back in time to discover more about their family history and to find out who they really are.

With the help of special guests, Queensbridge and Grasmere Primary School pupils got the chance to discover something in their family history which inspires them to follow their dreams.

The “Making History” project was founded by Batman Begins and Dark Knight star Colin McFarlane in May this year.

The project involves children creating a short film of their journey of discovery. 

They work on Apple iPads and use specialised software and research tools to help them track down ancestors.

The short films made will be screened next February at the British Film Institute on the South Bank in London.

Last Wednesday, children were joined by Mr McFarlane and Shobu Kapoor, former EastEnders and Citizen Khan actress.

Ian McGovern, deputy head of Grasmere Primary School in Stoke Newington, said: “It’s absolutely amazing to see the stories evolve and the joy and surprise the children show in finding out the surprises in their heritage.”

Sophie Wood, Queensbridge Primary School teacher, said: “The project has inspired many of the children to go home and have conversations that they’ve never had before with family members about their background and heritage.”

Pupils taking part have been encouraged to see if ancestors were involved in the First World War to mark the centenary anniversary.

Mr McFarlane said that some fascinating stories have already been uncovered by students.

He added: “Generally the average age of someone researching their family history is 55, this project rips up that statistic by involving the whole family and empowers and inspires children to follow their dreams. 

“The project has been fantastic for the children and it has been both moving and inspiring to witness the power of it.”

http://www.hackneygazette.co.uk/news/education/stars_visit_pupils_in_hackney_to_become_history_detectives_for_the_day_1_4350707