Bringing History to Life at Gressenhall

This term, our Year 6 pupils enjoyed an unforgettable day of hands-on historical learning during their annual visit to Gressenhall Farm and Workhouse. The trip provided a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience life as it might have been in a Victorian workhouse.

Throughout the day, pupils took part in a range of immersive activities that brought history to life. They began by crafting traditional peg dolls, a simple yet meaningful pastime that gave them insight into how children entertained themselves in the past. Next, they created festive paper chains and candy canes, learning about the customs and traditions that shaped Victorian celebrations.

One of the highlights of the visit was the chance to explore what it meant to be “in service.” Pupils discovered the roles and responsibilities of servants in Victorian households, including the art of setting a formal table. This activity was followed by an engaging drama session, where pupils acted out scenes that reflected the strict routines and expectations of life in service. These experiences helped them understand the social structure and daily challenges faced by people during this period.

The day’s activities were all linked by an exciting central theme: a mystery in the workhouse. Pupils were tasked with solving the question, “Who stole the pie?” This interactive challenge encouraged teamwork, problem-solving, and critical thinking, as pupils pieced together clues and examined evidence to uncover the culprit. It was a fantastic way to combine historical learning with fun and creativity.

By the end of the visit, pupils had not only deepened their knowledge of Victorian life but also developed a real appreciation for the resilience and resourcefulness of people in the past. The trip to Gressenhall was a wonderful opportunity to make history tangible and memorable, and it will undoubtedly inspire further learning back in the classroom.