PICTURES: Victorian blast from the past for Melvich school pupils
PUPILS at Melvich Primary went back in time to the Victorian era last week when they experienced what is was like to be taught in a classroom from that period.
The children in P5-7 took part in the activity as part of their social studies topic.
The tables were set out in rows, the blinds closed, the lights switched off and everyone was dressed in Victorian costumes. Next came out slates and chalk, and not a Chromebook in sight.
The pupils’ teacher for the afternoon was Emma Sinclair from Farr High School’s history department. She ensured the children sampled Victorian teaching methods first-hand and experienced what it was like to be “seen and not heard”.
P5 pupil Seumas Kerr said: “I really had to think about the maths we did, using Victorian money, and it was hard to write on the slates." Kamryn Mackay in P7 added: “It was a lot of fun but I’m very glad I didn’t go to school in Victorian times!”
At the end of the afternoon all the children enjoyed playing a well-known Victorian parlour game, “Reverend Crawley’s game” which resulted in great hilarity.
P5-7 class teacher, Amanda Mackay, commented: “The children had a fantastic learning experience, with lots of fun into the bargain. Mrs Sinclair really brought the topic to life for the class. We are very grateful to her and the high school for facilitating this visit.”