Victorians 1897

Experience the atmosphere, curriculum and expectations of a Victorian schoolroom in the week leading up to Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations.

History Off the Page will transform your school hall into an authentic Victorian classroom before leading the children through their 4 Rs.

They will learn to understand and appreciate their place within society of one of the most influential countries of the world.

For the afternoon, children will undertake hands-on exploration and employ their detective skills to solve mysteries involving genuine historical artefacts.

They will then have opportunities to explore a wider range of Victorian artefacts and recreate their own Victorian toys.

(View our risk assessment of the day’s activities in a new tab.)

EXPLORE THE VICTORIANS’ LEGACY WITH OUR VIRTUAL VICTORIAN WORKSHOP

 

Christmas with the Victorians

As a seasonal variation, children can experience school as it would have been on Christmas Eve 1897.

Along the way, children explore how the Victorians introduced or popularised many of the festive traditions we enjoy today.

In the afternoon, the children rehearse and perform their own seasonal variety hall show.

 

How You Contribute to the Day

To make the most of your children’s day, please help us with the following:

  • Adult helpers: The number of children participating determines how many work stations our Teacher brings. Please recruit a corresponding number of adults (teachers, TAs, parents) to oversee the afternoon session. (Your booking form lists the exact number needed.)
  • The school hall: Please reserve the school hall for the full day (it is not a problem if it is used for lunch).
  • Costumes: Please encourage the children to dress up in simple costumes. It helps them feel the part.

Please note that we still require adult helpers for in-school days. If this conflicts with your schools coronavirus policies, please let us know — a virtual workshop might be a better option for your school.

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What to Wear

Costumes need not be complicated — we suggest the following “homemade” alternatives:

  • Boys: Either short trousers and long socks, or long trousers/track suit bottoms tucked into long socks. A collar-less shirt (cut the collar off an old one!) A waistcoat and /or a cap could also be worn.
  • Girls: Either a long dress nipped in at the waist, or a long skirt and a blouse. A white apron or a smock could also be worn. A mob cap or a hat and a shawl would complete the look.