Art, History and Community: The Civil War Banners Project
This summer, RGS Worcester was proud to play its part in The Civil War Banners Project, a city-wide initiative that combined history, art and education to celebrate Worcester’s unique role in the English Civil War. In partnership with The Battle of Worcester Society, Heart of Worcestershire College, Worcester Sixth Form College and Worcester City Council, the project brought together students across the city to design and paint banners inspired by those carried by regiments during the Battle of Worcester in 1651.
At RGS, Year Eight and Lower Sixth Art pupils worked under the guidance of Ms Hasnat and Mr Pardoe-Davies, with the project linking directly to the History curriculum studied in Year Eight. Pupils gained a sense of the historical significance of banners and their symbolic power, while also exploring their own creativity through an internal banner design competition. Congratulations once again to Kate, whose design was chosen as the overall winner, and to Moin and Summer, whose entries were highly commended.
The finished banners, painted by students from across the city including those from RGS, were unveiled this summer along Copenhagen Street. Their bold colours and intricate details caught the attention of residents and visitors alike, transforming a central part of Worcester into a vibrant outdoor gallery. A total of fifteen banners were displayed, marking what has been hailed as “a model for combining heritage with education and community pride.”
The project has been warmly received by the local community. Councillor Lynn Denham, Leader of Worcester City Council, described it as “a fascinating project which brings to life Worcester’s role in the English Civil War,” while Daniel Daniels, Chairman of The Battle of Worcester Society, celebrated its success as “more than decoration – it’s living history.”
For RGS pupils, the experience has been both educational and memorable, offering them a chance to connect directly with their city’s past while contributing something tangible to its present. As Mr Pardoe-Davies reflected, the project enabled pupils to imagine what life might have been like during such a turbulent period, whilst deepening their appreciation for real history right on their doorstep.
With the trial banners having been declared a success, plans are already being considered to expand the project in future years. RGS Worcester is delighted to have played a key role in this inaugural collaboration and we look forward to seeing how this unique blend of art, history and community develops in the future.
