In Search of the New River

Between November 2025 and February 2026 illustrator Laura Copsey and animator Simon Hamlyn worked with young people from New River College Medical on a film exploring the heritage and evidence of the New River in Islington.

Over the course of the project the young people and the staff explored analogue printing techniques, digital animation and created their own sound effects. The project also provided an opportunity for young people to focus on personal interests such as videography and photography.

A field trip on a wet, cold day in December 2025 traced the route of the New River through Islington, finding evidence of its existence and making underwater recordings. Despite their school’s name, the young people – and, as it turned out – the people they met and vox popped on their field trip had little knowledge of the New River and its role in London’s history and water infrastructure.

The finished film, with subtitles and audio description, is shown in the Cafe at the Centre where it sits alongside Quentin Blake’s mural of the river.

New River College Medical is an alternative provision for children and young people with medical and/or mental health and wellbeing needs. Every individual has access to a broad and personalised curriculum, high-quality pastoral support and therapeutic interventions to capitalise on the talents and strengths of our pupils and build their confidence, independence and resilience.