Thursday July 2nd 2026
The pupils visited the Watt Institution and created models as part of the project
Written by Glasgow View Reporter, Liam Eunson
Talented pupils from Inverkip Primary School have created a series of powerful animated short films inspired by historic artefacts held at the Watt Institution.
Over the past year, the P5B youngsters and their class teacher Katie D’Souza worked with Noel Griffin, learning and engagement officer at the museum, to create the eight films.
The History = Our Story project was funded by the Scottish Government and encouraged the children to explore the museum’s collection in relation to colonialism, environmental exploitation, Indigenous knowledge and global inequality, using the artefacts as the starting points for discussion.
Rather than just learning about history, the pupils became historians, researchers, storytellers and digital creators. They were all directly involved in carrying out the research during trips to the Watt Institution then wrote a script, produced storyboards, created drawings and 3D models and recorded voiceovers.
Some of the films are closely linked to Inverclyde’s past such as sugar and shipbuilding while others focused on stories around ivory bracelets, eucalyptus and the extinction of the passenger pigeon.
Councillor Jim Clocherty, convener of education and communities, said: “This is a fantastic project and the films the children have created are just brilliant.
“This is a great way of bringing the past to life in an accessible way for young people. The project demonstrates how museums and schools can work together to help young people engage with history and complex issues while developing key creative, critical and digital skills.
“Inverclyde’s colonial past is one we should not, and have not, shied away from. Indeed Katie D’Souza and Noel Griffin both have history with this as they were part of the team which developed Inverclyde Council’s COSLA award-winning Historic Links to Slavery project in 2023.
“Well done to everyone involved at the Watt Institution and Inverkip Primary for supporting the young people to showcase their talents. I highly recommend taking look at the videos – I can guarantee you’ll learn something new!”
The project has already attracted national interest, having been recognised by His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Education in Scotland as an example of Highly Effective Practice.
The films are all available to view now on Inverclyde Council’s YouTube channel and will also leave a legacy as part of the visitor experience when the council-run Watt Institution, which incorporates the McLean Museum & Art Gallery, Watt Library and Watt Hall, reopens later this year.
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