A very special suitcase

Schools are being invited to join an exciting local landmark pilot project in conjunction with the Institute of Cornish Studies based at the University of Exeter’s Penryn Campus and the Cornwall Heritage Trust. The ‘Landmark Travels – our past in a suitcase’ project will initially run for three months. A specialist team of experts will inspire children and teachers through workshops focused on Cornish landmarks such as Dupath Well, Carn Euny and Treffry Viaduct. 

Children involved will get the chance to visit these local landmarks and, with the help of the mystery contents of the suitcase, will respond creatively using a range of techniques. These will include storytelling, sculpture, painting, digital media, collage and poetry. At the end of each workshop, children’s responses will be folded up, posted and attached to the inside of the old suitcases. These suitcases will then travel to the next school to inspire more young people to carry on this important work.

Sarah Chapman, who is coordinating the project said:“From past experience, we have learnt that storytelling and creativity provide positive ways to engage children with their heritage in a meaningful, responsive and fun way. This project will expand on this and takes us out into the landscape to explore some of the fascinating historic landmarks on our doorstep.”

The ‘Landmark Travels – our past in a suitcase’ project will offer a different approach to engage people of all ages with their local heritage, spreading knowledge about Cornwall’s past.

Schools interested in joining the project can contact Sarah Chapman on 07767382552 or email