Year 2 had an unforgettable adventure as they stepped back in time to 1897 during their visit to Sevington Victorian School. It was a truly educational and immersive experience, giving the children a fascinating taste of life in a Victorian classroom.
From the moment they entered the schoolroom, the children were transported to another era. The classroom remains just as Miss Squire, the schoolmistress, left it when the school closed in 1913. Surrounded by authentic artefacts, the children learned the three R’s – Reading, wRiting and aRithmetic – all while following the strict rules of a Victorian school day. Miss Squire was quick to remind everyone that “speech is silver and silence is golden!”
Lessons began with the register, where children stood smartly to respond with a polite “Present, ma’am”, hands neatly folded in their laps. The children fully embraced their roles, carefully following the rules throughout the day – especially when they reached the highlight (and slight shiver!) of the visit: the instruments of correction!
The day also showcased Victorian life beyond the classroom. The boys tried their hand at traditional tasks such as gardening, lighting oil lamps, sweeping paths and candle making, while the girls made lavender bags and polished brass. Lunchtime was a simple but authentic affair: a hunk of bread, cheese, an apple and a special treat of shortbread.
Year 2 Class Teacher Mrs Talbot said: “Everyone had an amazing time, but we’re not quite convinced that the children of St Margaret’s would choose to swap their modern school days for a Victorian one – even if it was lots of fun to try it out!”
