African artefacts dating back to the First World War were brought to life in a series of animated documentaries created by students from Cumberland School.

Newham Recorder: Students of Cumberland School at the screening of a special project with the Imperial War Museum called New Perspectives.Students of Cumberland School at the screening of a special project with the Imperial War Museum called New Perspectives. (Image: Archant)

African artefacts dating back to the First World War were brought to life in a series of animated documentaries created by students from Cumberland School.

More than 20 children from year eight were involved in the project in conjunction with Chocolate Films and the Imperial War Museums.

Pupils attended weekly workshops across three months at IWM London to focus on the historical context of World War One in Africa before choosing a theme and artefact to base their film around.

Teacher Shahid Hussain said the project had given those involved “a very memorable experience”.

“As a school it has been great value because we want to give our kids a rounded experience, not just about learning in the classroom, but having different opportunities,” she said.

The films were screened for pupils, parents and staff during a special presentation evening.

Only a handful of London schools were invited to take part in the Heritage Lottery funded project to commemorate the centenary of the First World War and the best films could be put on permanent display in the museum.

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