Haywards Heath College students show creative flair in pop-up exhibition 

First year A-level photography students from Haywards Heath College recently came together to display their work in a pop-up exhibition, held at the college.

Students were tasked creating with a collection of photos which explored the contrasts and connections between rural and urban environments through the lens of decay.

Students began by conducting an analysis of rural and urban decay, which went on to form a basis for students to develop their own pieces.

Esme Graham-Evans, one of the students who took part, said:
“My pictures are based around urban decay, and the fact how man-made products can be overtaken by nature, and how, over time, anything will decay within a natural environment.

“I live near an old hospital, and this formed my initial inspiration for photography.”

Lillia Pople, another student who took part in the exhibit, added:
“I think my pictures have got a dark and spooky feel to them, with the skulls and goat’s head. I have a grandma who lives in a caravan in the middle of nowhere, and there are lots of examples of decay, I used that as my inspiration.

“It was one of my favourite projects we have done so far. I didn’t find it too challenging; I found the writing about it more difficult than the actual pictures themselves.”


Earlier in the project, students were hesitant about the theme of the decay, saying it lacked excitement. However, by the end, the vast majority of students agreed it was the most rewarding and impactful theme they had explored.

Merry Michau, lead photography teacher at Haywards Heath College, and the main organiser of the event, said: “I was instantly blown away by the diversity of the work and what they came back with and what they’ve found. Their response to the work was quite amazing.

“What is also really nice is that they also edited the work, printed it, mounted it, and framed it. They did the whole process themselves, so as a teacher, I am incredibly proud.

“All the time we are thinking of developing and refining their work. We are developing them for the world of work, as well as developing their personalities those challenges, they will go on to face as they leave college.”