Our children in Year 2 have been thoroughly immersed in all things Victorian this term!
As well as discovering fascinating historical facts, they have explored the writers and artists of the era, inspiring some truly outstanding work across the curriculum.
The highlight of our topic was an exciting trip to the Weald and Downland Living Museum. The children threw themselves into hands-on workshops, including domestic household chores, cooking drop scones over an open fire and experiencing a strict Victorian classroom in the historic West Wittering school building. From turning the mangle to writing with chalk on slate boards, the children made fantastic links to everything they have been learning back at Westbourne House.
"My best bit was writing on slate for the strict teacher."
Year 2 pupil
There were some magical moments that sparked the children's imagination and have since inspired some wonderful descriptive writing. On the steps of Weald and Downland, the children became the character of Jackson from Leon Garfield’s Fair’s Fair. It was incredible to watch them imagine life as the orphan boy, huddled on freezing stone steps while holding his warm pie. They have used their experience to add sensory details to their writing.
"It felt like we’d time-travelled back to Victorian times."
Year 2 pupil
In art, we examined famous artists of the era, such as Van Gogh, Lowry, Monet and Morris, experimenting with watercolours, pencil, oil and chalk pastels. The children created their own masterpieces.
"I loved learning how to use the mangle to dry the clothes."
Year 2 pupil
Our Year 2 pupils have been paddling weekly on our lake.
