On the 24th of February, Primary 6 visited Scotland Street Museum to see what life would be like in a Victorian classroom. This was part of our Social Studies topic of the Victorians.
When we arrived, the boys and girls were separated and taken to the cloakrooms to change into uniform worn in the Victorian times. We waited anxiously outside the classroom for the Victorian teacher as from what we have learned in our topic, we knew she was going to be extremely strict. The boys had to sit next to a girl (boy on the left and girl on the right).
First we recited a short prayer, followed by some mental arithmetic (this is what they called maths in the Victorian times). We used slates and slate pencils to answer some problem solving questions. They were tricky!
Next we practised copperplate writing using ink. If someone did something wrong, their table was slammed with the belt which was used on pupils during the Victorian times.
Towards the end of the workshop, the teacher came out of role and talked to us about the overall differences between Victorian schools and modern schools. At this point everyone felt much more relaxed!
Jamie was chosen to model the dunces hat, this was hilarious as everyone got to laugh at him. We also took part in a short drill activity (this is what they called PE in the Victorian times).
We all had a wonderful time and will remember this trip for a long time. We have realised how kind the teachers at Calderwood Lodge really are!
Check out some pictures from the trip below.
Written by Daniel and Harrison
