Children from Westbury-on-Severn Church of England Primary School have placed a lasting reminder of their part in the village of Westbury’s history by placing a time capsule in the walls of the parish church.
Seven year six students (age 10-11) joined conservation experts at the Church of St Mary, St Peter and St Paul, a Grade 1 listed building that has been at the heart of the village community for centuries.
As part of restoration work on the bell tower, the children helped with lime mixing and pointing before sealing a small metal time capsule inside the wall.
The contents of the capsule included clay figures made by the pupils, coins dated 2025, and a list of the schoolchildren involved.
Leanne Roseblade, RE Lead for the school, said: “We have a really close relationship with the church. All of our end-of-term services are held there, and the children go regularly as part of their learning. The church is the focal point of the village, and it’s an integral part of our school.
“It’s important that the younger generation learn why conserving church buildings matters. By helping in this way, the children know they are part of the church’s story and its future.
“When we looked around, children recognised names in the graveyard and pointed out relatives. They were amazed to see crosses carved into the door frame and musket holes from the Civil War. It made the history of the church real to them.”
The restoration project follows other efforts to involve families and children in caring for the church building.
“A couple of years ago families sponsored roof tiles during repairs to the tower. Now the children have been able to add their own contribution through the time capsule. It shows them that maintaining the church isn’t just about preserving a building, but about carrying on something that has been central to the community and to Christian faith for centuries.”
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