Celebrating inspiring work with Riverside Routes and Rowlands Gill Primary School

As Riverside Routes x Tyne Derwent Way enters the final stretch of its current funding period, creative producer Elizabeth Kane is busy bringing two school projects to a close and opening up a bigger conversation...

How has artist-led exploration along the Derwent changed the way children, families and local creatives connect with the landscape and with each other?

Whilst some groups have enjoyed short but impactful creative walks and projects, some partnerships have grown deeper. One such partnership is the work we've completed with Rowlands Gill Primary School. Together with Gateshead Council Art Development Team, the school has enjoyed two inspiring and varied projects, connecting pupils with the River Derwent, their local landscape, and the wider community.

The projects

The first project saw artist Josie Brookes work with children to create Riverside Roundup, a vibrant zine capturing the pupils' perspectives of the riverside environment. Copies were shared with the community, and on revisiting the school the now Year 5 students were eager to share what stuck and how the 'smelly moss tree' has become a local landmark!

The second project, with Megan Randall invited pupils to explore the Derwent through various artforms including ceramics. Working alongside artists and educators, the children produced artwork inspired by the river's ecology and history.

Reflecting on the school's experience, teacher Jess Beattie said:

"We as a school have benefitted greatly over the last two years from the Riverside Routes x Tyne Derwent Way project. Using the local environment helped to link the children to their locality and I know made them and their families use the local space more.
 

"Having expert artists to lead the sessions was inspiring for us and for the pupils. Letting the children share in the process of visiting, creating and then exhibiting the art was really satisfying and gave the children total ownership over the work.
 

"I know that these sessions have been absolute highlights of the year for a lot of the children. Personally I loved working with Elizabeth, Meg and Josie."

Both projects highlight the school's commitment to creative learning and meaningful engagement with the natural environment. Through collaboration, pupils not only developed artistic skills but also deepened their connection to the Derwent and its surroundings.

Visit the SHAPE exhibition

A large format copy of Riverside Roundup and photographs of some of the current year 4's ceramics are included in the free upcoming SHAPE exhibition at Vane, showcasing young people's artistic responses to place:

Shape Exhibition at Vane
65 High Street, Gateshead, NE8 2AP
Monday 23 to Saturday 28 February 2026
Open 12 to 5pm

We hope to continue to partner with schools like Rowlands Gill Primary to deliver incredible creative projects that grow young people's connection to the incredible spaces across Gateshead.