Ученики начальной школы из Инверкипа получили престижную награду за фильм о колониальном прошлом региона

A TALENTED group of pupils who created a film exploring Inverclyde's colonial past have been recognised with a prestigious award. Primary Five pupils from Inverkip Primary received a Special Recognition Award at the Scottish Association of Minority Ethnic Educators (SAMEE) Awards 2026 for their work on eight animated short films. The films were part of their 'History = Our Story' project, which explored Inverclyde’s colonial past through storytelling and digital media. Professor Khadija Mohammed, chair of SAMEE, said: "By uncovering hidden histories, Inverkip Primary School is helping to ensure that every story matters, and every voice has value. "This project has encouraged pupils to think critically, develop empathy, and deepen their understanding of the diverse experiences that have shaped our communities. "The Special Recognition Award at the SAMEE Awards 2026 is a testament to the school's commitment to inclusive education and to the remarkable efforts of everyone involved. "Their work is an inspiration to schools across Scotland." A group of pupils, parents and staff attended the SAMEE Awards ceremony at the Marriot Hotel in Glasgow to collect the award. Pupils took part in research visits to the Watt Institution, then developed scripts, storyboards, drawings, 3D models and voiceovers for the films. The finished animations were published on Inverclyde Council’s YouTube channel in June. Some of the films focused on Inverclyde’s history in the sugar and shipbuilding industries, while others explored topics such as ivory bracelets, eucalyptus trees and the extinction of the passenger pigeon. The films will also become part of the visitor experience at the Watt Institution when it reopens following lift installation works. Jim Clocherty, convener of education and communities at Inverclyde Council, said: "This is a fantastic project and I’m delighted it has received national recognition. "The films are so creative and shine a light in an interesting and engaging way on Inverclyde’s colonial past. "I hope this means even more people will watch the videos online as they are a fantastic example of research, creativity and storytelling." The project was led by class teacher Katie D’Souza and digital learning and engagement officer Noel Griffin from the Watt Institution. It was funded by the Scottish Government and encouraged pupils to explore museum artefacts and their links to colonialism, environmental exploitation, Indigenous knowledge and global inequality.