Children from Penderyn Primary School were given the chance to learn about the industrial past at the remains of the Gunpowder Works near Pontneddfechan.
Education Officers from Bannau Brycheiniog National Park Authority led the children on a walk around the heritage site, encouraging them to connect with the past and to also develop their knowledge about the natural environment.
The remains of Glynneath Gunpowder Works are one of only two in Wales and the product produced there was vital to the growth of industrialisation during the 19th and early 20th century. Bannau Brycheiniog National Park Authority are currently implementing a Heritage Lottery Funded project that will secure the future of the site, conserving its structures and bringing it back to life through interpretation.
Education Officers from the National Park provided a guided walk that focused on telling the story of the past and provided an opportunity for the children to see and understand the ruins. They also carried out activities that related to the natural landscape and diverse biodiversity that exists within the region. As part of the Heritage Lottery Funded project, the Authority want to inspire local people to use and visit the area and through educating school children, they hope to create future National Park ambassadors.
Mel Doel, Chairman of Bannau Brycheiniog National Park Authority said; “The Gunpowder Works are important to our heritage, they played a fundamental role in the industrialisation era. This project will conserve the remains here for future generations. It’s great to see local school children engaging with our projects and also learning within our National Park”.
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