Children in Year One at Hillside First School in Verwood experienced life as a Victorian School child on 15 February.
The day began with a hand inspection, followed by recital of the alphabet and handwriting practice.
During the rest of the day the children experienced Victorian numeracy, reading, drill and religious studies.
In the afternoon the classes were split into girls and boys, where the girls were given a Victorian lesson on how to wash, iron and sew clothes; whilst the boys had a Victorian woodwork lesson.
Even playtime was on a Victorian theme, playing with hoops and tops. They finished the day reviewing what they had learnt.
The children said they felt the day had enhanced their understanding of schools in the past, but said they preferred school life today where they get to make choices in their learning and can work in groups with each other and talk!
As a Rights Respecting School, Hillside also looked at children’s rights to an education, their right to play, and have a voice, which Victorian children didn’t benefit from.
The children appreciated that they would never experience the rigorous forms of punishment meted out by the Victorian teaching staff.
