Using a wide range of available resources such as literature, poetry and biographies, students spent time researching the considerable influence key individuals within the Jewish community have had on the development of the city of Split. Students also visited the local synagogue and cemetery and conducted open discussions with members of the community to learn about Jewish culture and customs. 

Students gained a greater awareness of the importance of preserving cultural heritage and the values associated with preservation. Alongside learning about their local community and the history of Split, students have developed a greater awareness of antisemitism, as well as prejudice and discrimination more generally, and how they can embed the values of tolerance and respect within their own lives. 

Students created a stop-motion animation film highlighting key periods from Split’s history; Daniel Rodriguez (16c) and his role in the construction of the customs house enabling Split to become a commercial port; Vida Morpurgo’s establishment of one of the oldest bookshops in the world (19c) and his role in the national cultural revival; and the Holocaust, highlighting Abraham Albahari’s rescue by nuns from the St. Joseph convent. 

Students will present the film and wider project to their peers on Holocaust Remembrance Day. The school is sharing the film on their website, along with resources for other teachers to use in the classroom. The project will also be presented at the local professional council, and the film is being submitted to the Youth Film Review and the Four River Film Festival next year.