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The old village primary school |
The Centre, which became an EEC in the early 1970s used to be the old village primary school built in 1857 and is an ideal setting for a local history study of Horton Kirby with particular emphasis on houses and homes through the ages, and/or Victorian family life. A Victorian day will contribute to pupil’s knowledge, skills and understanding of the past. |
| A
visit normally begins with a walk around the village, looking for Victorian
evidence such as road names and street furniture. Housing styles and material
at Russell Terrace, built at the turn of the Century will be viewed before
carrying on to The Street, where further evidence will be investigated.
Finally the site of the old corn mill, built in the 1860’s, beside
the River Darent may be observed. The mill and factory has now been demolished
to give way for housing, creating more examples of ‘change’
in the local environment. |
 Pupils in Russell Terrace |
| The
alternative to a circular walk around the village, particularly for younger
pupils, is to visit Russell Terrace and the graveyard at St. Mary’s
Church where many Victorian locals were buried, including prominent names
in the village. Throughout the walk pupils may follow and complete a plan
of the village and there are some limited opportunities for sketches. |
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| After
lunch at the Centre there are a variety of follow-up learning possibilities
depending on teachers requirements. Discussion about the mornings walk
is often illustrated by old maps and photographs of the area, which help
pupils to note settlement changes in the village. Census material and
parish records can be investigated mainly by upper Key Stage 2 pupils,
while there are alternative activities for younger pupils. Authentic photos
of children at the school in the 1890’s prepares them for a short
sample lesson in the ‘Victorian Room’. The Centre has a small
stock of Victorian clothes, though the atmosphere is enhanced if the whole
class arrive in period dress. |
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Curriculum
Relevance
A
‘Victorian Day’ is appropriate for Key Stage 1 & 2 with
the latter supporting the British History study of ‘Victorian Britain’
through, for example houses, street furniture and clues to family life.
Investigations into changes in the design of houses and homes through
the ages in Horton Kirby is also appropriate. The format and timing of
the day is flexible and may depend on pertaining weather conditions. It
can also be structured to suit teacher requirements and the needs, ages
and abilities of the pupils. |
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