Dunston Staiths inspires amazing stories

An iconic Gateshead landmark on the Tyne Derwent Way was recently the riverside setting for a creative project with children from a local school.

Children from years 4 and 6 at St Aidan's Church of England Primary School got involved in imaginative storytelling and performance along the scenic riverside by Dunston Staiths, working with Gateshead Council's Arts Team, in partnership with Unfolding Theatre.

The project, titled Staiths Stories, was part of the Riverside Routes x Tyne Derwent Way initiative. The project not only fostered creativity and confidence but also supported emotional wellbeing and environmental awareness. It marks the second year of collaboration with St Aidan's, reinforcing the long-term impact of arts-based outdoor learning.

Led by Unfolding Theatre's Annie Rigby and a team of five artists, the project offered children a joyful and inclusive experience that blended creativity, nature, and personal expression.

The team have installed three boards along the stretch of the river from the Staiths Café to the bird hide, which link walkers to a QR code where they can hear the children's stories 'Poppy's Potion' and 'Three Girls Meet'.

We hope listening to their amazing tales might inspire other explorers around the Staiths to pen their own tale.

Read more about Staiths Stories