News

Year 6 pupils at Chartham Primary School, part of Turner Schools, had a hands-on day of learning what it was like to be a child in the Victorian era. 

As part of the school’s Victorian school day, the pupils had to pay a Victorian penny for attending school and they had to follow the strict school rules of that era.

For example, the Year 6s had to stand when an adult entered the room, they could not ask questions, nor speak unless they were spoken to; boys and girls were also separated in class.

The children took part in elocution lessons, handwriting practice on chalkboards, finding out about the British Empire and singing the national anthem.

They also found out about jobs that children may have done in factories and workhouses and they made Victorian toys such as cup-and-ball and thaumatrope, an optical toy popular in the 19th Century. 

Chartham Primary School organised the day as part of the children’s history learning on the Victorians.

Pupils thoroughly enjoyed the day, which helped to spark their imaginations.

One pupil said: “I really really enjoyed Victorian day because it felt like we were in a Victorian classroom. I particularly enjoyed the writing on the chalkboards and making toys. I also enjoyed seeing everybody's outfits. The teachers were in character and we found the dunce cap very funny."

Another added: "It was fantastic! We got to make Victorian toys!"

Vicki Copeman, Assistant Headteacher of Chartham Primary School, said: “Our Victorian Day was a great day with the children really getting into their Victorian roles.

“The day helped to build on their history learning for this term and it was a wonderful way for them to connect with history in a hands-on, memorable way.”