Rookwood School students participate in photography workshop

The 14 Rookwood School students participated in the workshop, led by professional photographer Simon Peter Green, during the school's annual Activities Week earlier this month.

The week provides pupils with a chance to enjoy "enriching and memorable experiences".

This year's theme was "community," inspiring the photography project.

The project offered students an opportunity to engage with residents in a "creative and thoughtful" manner.

The students asked if members of the public would be willing to have their portrait taken. (Image: Rookwood School) Working in two supervised groups, the students used professional camera equipment to approach members of the public.

They asked if they would be willing to have their portrait taken and share their thoughts on life in Andover.

To gain insight into the experiences and perspectives of local people, they asked reflective questions such as what’s your favourite part of Andover?; what improvements would you like to see?; and what changes have you noticed in the town over the years?

The conversations were recorded with the intent of being transcribed and potentially included in a public exhibition later in the year.

Back at school, students began editing their photographs and preparing their work for display.

This process helped them develop both technical skills and an understanding of ethical storytelling, empathy and the power of human connection.

Mrs Blackmore, director of enrichment at Rookwood, said: "Activities Week is all about giving our pupils experiences that broaden their horizons and strengthen their sense of connection - with each other and with the world around them.

"This workshop captured that perfectly, blending creativity, confidence-building, and community engagement in one powerful day.

"We are incredibly proud of the professionalism, sensitivity and curiosity shown by our students throughout the day.

"This project has been a meaningful step in helping young people see their town - and the people in it - through a new lens."

Plans are now underway for a potential exhibition to showcase the students’ work, a celebration of the stories and faces of Andover as seen through the eyes of its younger residents.