Leeds Pupils Bury Time Capsules to Mark 400 Years
July 13, 2026Children capture life in Leeds today for future generations
On 13 July 2026, 400 primary school pupils across Leeds participated in a project to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the city receiving its first royal charter from King Charles I in 1626. As part of the Leeds 400 programme, these young people prepared and buried time capsules containing items representing life in Leeds in 2026. The capsules are intended to be opened in 100 years’ time, offering a glimpse into the city’s present for future generations.
Schools across Leeds take part
Among the schools involved was Chapel Allerton Primary School, where pupils selected objects that they felt reflected their experiences at school and life in Leeds today. These included items related to school, sport, and play, as well as posters showcasing their favourite aspects of their local area. The capsules were buried in school playgrounds on the anniversary date.
Items chosen by pupils
- Nellie Brennan, 11: A FIFA 2026 World Cup sticker book, chosen to show interest in football and to provide future readers with insight into the sport’s popularity.
- La-niyah Fuller, 11: A lion mask made for the school’s upcoming musical production of Madagascar, reflecting current school activities.
- Joe Salmond, Maahnoor Rauf, and Ranw Amin, all 11: Pens, pencils, and pencil sharpeners, representing traditional school stationery which they speculated might be obsolete in the future.
The pupils expressed curiosity about how life and education might change over the next century, with some suggesting that future students might complete all their work digitally. They also highlighted the importance of Leeds’ parks and green spaces, hoping these will still be preserved in 100 years.
School and city reflections
Nicholas Sykes, headteacher of Chapel Allerton Primary School, said the project gave children an opportunity to reflect on their lives today and imagine the future. The school itself is approaching its 150th anniversary, adding to the significance of the commemorations.
The time capsule project was part of a wider initiative led by Child Friendly Leeds, a Leeds City Council programme aimed at improving the city for children and young people. In total, 19 primary schools across Leeds took part in burying time capsules on the same day.
Leeds 400 celebrations
The Leeds 400 programme marks the granting of the royal charter in 1626, which incorporated Leeds as a “free borough” and laid the foundation for the modern city. Events to celebrate the milestone included a picnic on City Square and a church service at Leeds Minster hosted by the Lord Mayor on 12 July 2026.
Councillor Salma Arif, executive member for economy at Leeds City Council, commented on the importance of involving children in the celebrations, saying it was a meaningful way to connect the city’s past, present, and future.
Further information about the Leeds 400 programme and related events is available on the official Leeds 400 website.
