Ramsgate’s Little Ships Inspires RAPS’ Young Creatives
Children at Ramsgate Arts Primary are setting sail to be part of a special commemoration to mark the 85th anniversary of Operation Dynamo which saw troops evacuated from the beaches of Dunkirk during World War 2.
Ramsgate’s Harbour Heritage team visited the school and explained to pupils about the huge impact that the heroism of the Little Ships travelling back and forth across the Channel in extremely dangerous circumstances helped save so many lives.
Sixty Year 2 pupils then took part in an art workshop where they decorated boats they had created using the Japanese skill of paper-folding, Origami.
The young artists added comments on to the side of their craft to reflect the bravery of those who took part in one of the most famous wartime events in this country’s maritime history.
Art teacher Kelly Ann Smith added: “These boats will now be part of a huge art installation in collaboration with other local schools in Ramsgate.
“It will take place during this month’s programme of events where our children will be able to view their work. We hope that many parents will join in and visit the installation and other events.”
The school’s model boats will be ‘moored’ on display at Albion Place Gardens on Saturday, May 17, and at Ellington Park on Sunday, May 18.
Head of School Nick Budge said: “Operation Dynamo is an extremely important part of our history. It is an astonishing tale of bravery against the odds.
“Our school is honoured to be invited to take part in the commemorative programme. As well as helping to underpin our pupils’ history learning, it has given them a chance to have creative input into a community event.
“Celebrating our country’s history, heritage and culture is an important part of our learning at RAPS and we thank the harbour heritage team for visiting us and inspiring our creative efforts.”
Find out more about Ramsgate’s planned events for the 85th anniversary by following this online link.
www.visitthanet.co.uk/events/operation-dynamo-commemorations-141560/#
*The Dunkirk evacuation, codenamed Operation Dynamo and also known as the Miracle of Dunkirk, was the evacuation of more than 338,000 Allied soldiers from the beaches and harbour of Dunkirk in northern between May 26 and June 4 in 1940.
Ramsgate Arts Primary is part of the Viking Academy Trust with its partner schools Chilton Primary in Ramsgate and Upton Juniors in Broadstairs.
**Contact Head of School Nick Budge on 01843 582847