Exploring Stories Through Photography: The Big Picture Co-Creation Project
Over the past few weeks, the pupils in our Sensational Learning Centre have been taking part in an inspiring creative heritage project: The Big Picture Co-Curation Project.
The project revisits We Can Take Pictures – a 1982–83 photography initiative by Franki Raffles and pupils from Pinewood School. This powerful archive, now held at the University of St Andrews, captured life from the perspective of children with additional needs, giving them the opportunity to tell their own stories through photography.
Through a series of four creative sessions, pupils explored the archive, shared their thoughts, and expressed themselves through art and photography. Across these sessions, they:
- Handled vintage instant cameras and discussed their favourite models
- Created a timeline of camera designs
- Looked at archival images and reflected on how stories are told through photography
- Used mounting frames to see our campus in new, creative ways
- Began producing individual storybooks about their school experience
- Worked together as a creative team to start designing a pupil-authored Welcome Book for our Sensational Learning Centre
It’s been fantastic to see their confidence, creativity, and insights come to life. The project has offered a unique opportunity to connect with the past, reflect on the present, and ensure their own voices are heard.
“I have loved working with the young people at Donaldson’s. They’ve taken such a thoughtful and creative approach to the sessions, and I really hope I can return in September to work with these talented curators to develop an exhibition.” – Kirstie Jamieson, Project Lead
We’re incredibly proud of everyone who took part and look forward to seeing how their input helps shape the upcoming public exhibition.
