I've started to see and hear the images, sounds and thoughts about the 5 Host Boroughs from students involved in
Welcoming the World. They're insightful and surprising - not least of all because they show images of contrast possibly found only in London.
Jonilda, from Windrush Primary, Greenwich appreciates the tranquility of the Thames and the graffiti art scene: 'It's really peaceful and calm and you can walk to the river and see all the swans and fish and animals. It is also the best because there are really nice people and lovely pieces of art on the walls and vans and it looks great.'
What I've enjoyed most about the programme however is the unexpected elements, such as the interaction between students and the community and the reflection about their areas during the process.
Natasha, from Rush Croft School, Waltham Forest says she 'benefited from this project because working with professional photographers helped me improve my photographic skills. I'm also better at approaching people...':
Charlotte agreed with her classmate: 'By going out and taking pictures I became more confident by asking people if I am allowed to take there (sic) pictures...'.
One of her pictures:
And Kirsty realised that 'people are a lot friendlier than they look'. Having completed the programme, Princ, recognises 'now I pay more attention to things, that I didn't notice before'. Princ also offers a reflection that I think underpins Welcoming the World: 'I learnt that you can see the world in another way'.
One of Kirsty's photos:
Some lessons go a lot further than the classroom. While welcoming the world to London 2012 is an ambitious task, it looks like the young people in the five Host Boroughs know what they're doing.
